Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 380: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will clarify the situation regarding the function of Údarás na Gaeltachta when it comes to promoting employment for persons in the Gaeltacht; if a working use of the Irish language is a prerequisite for employment in companies assisted by Údarás na Gaeltachta; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23658/07]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The functions of Údarás na Gaeltachta and its powers in relation to financial assistance for industrial purposes are set out in sections 8 and 10 of the Údarás na Gaeltachta Act 1979 and the Údarás na Gaeltachta (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1999.

I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that standard grant agreements with companies being grant-aided contain provisions aimed at ensuring that native Irish speakers are employed or, if native Irish speakers are not available, that persons with fluent Irish are employed. Other language-related conditions are included as appropriate, for example, the implementation of agreed language development plans. It is recognised, however, that many companies, particularly those located in areas where the predominant language is not Irish, experience difficulties in recruiting sufficient Irish speakers with the required skills for the number of jobs available.

Advice and practical assistance are provided by an tÚdarás on an ongoing basis in order to ensure a positive attitude to the Irish language in companies. Support is provided to facilitate employees willing to improve their Irish language competence and companies are also encouraged to initiate activities within the company and in the local community to promote the use of Irish.

I understand also that preparations are at an advanced stage for a replacement programme for "Fondúireacht an Údaráis", a scheme designed to encourage a competitive element to the promotion of language-based initiatives within companies.