Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South-West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. I appreciate that her matter relates to trying to reduce red tape. That does seem like another layer of red tape, but it really is important that we protect these Gaeltacht areas and ensure that there is some level of Irish spoken in them.

On the red tape in general, the Senator raised a very good point. There needs to be a bespoke approach to Gaeltacht areas - and I would say island areas as well - involving some type of innovative housing solution.

We are seeing that it is proving more and more difficult for young people, in particular, to establish a connection to an area. They have to jump through hoops. Suitable sites are difficult to obtain. Often, these Gaeltacht areas are visually stunning, so there are issues with site suitability. I appreciate all of that. There needs to be an innovative approach specifically for the Gaeltacht areas and the islands, perhaps something like gateway housing, where people are given an opportunity to experience life in a Gaeltacht with an option to stay there longer. The Senator made a good point. I get the sense of urgency about the guidelines and I will bring that back to my Department.