Joe Conway (Independent)

It is often said among Irish language enthusiasts gurb é todhchaí na nGaelscoileanna todhchaí na teanga. The embodiment of the revival and the strengthening of the Irish language is inextricably bound up with the Gaelscoileanna and the impetus it gives to the proliferation of an Ghaeilge among the younger generation. At this stage, Scoil Gharbháin has probably issued into the community at least 2,000 Irish speakers, which, for a west of Waterford cohort, is hugely significant. I am a tad disappointed that, despite my very direct question to the Minister of State, no indication was given in the reply as to when the application will be going into Waterford City and County Council. That is the nub of the thing.