Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 430: To ask the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to give increased recognition and support to Irish sign language services; his plans to introduce a formal accreditation and registration system; the estimated cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2073/11]

John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The position is that the Government has no proposals to give increased recognition to Irish Sign Language as a third official language, nor are there plans to introduce a formal accreditation and registration system. However, in line with the aim of mainstreaming, policy in the area of language for people with disabilities is reflected in the responsibilities of several Ministers and, indeed, existing legislation gives a level of recognition and practical measures equal to, or above, that in countries which have formally recognised sign language.

This is reflected in the Education Act 1998 (learning through Irish Sign Language), the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (language assessment) and the Disability Act 2005 (SI No 163 of 2006 - Code of Practice on Accessibility of Public Services and Information provided by Public Bodies, under which, to instance only one of many public bodies, the Courts Service provides sign language interpretation when required). In addition, support is provided through the Citizens Information Board for the Sign Language Interpreting Service (SLIS).