Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 306: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the degree to which interest in the Irish language continues to be fostered and encouraged, if thought is being given to any measures aimed at further or enhanced promotion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37144/11]

Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 was published on 21 December 2010, following cross-party support in the Houses of the Oireachtas and a comprehensive consultative and research process. The Strategy promotes a holistic, integrated approach to the Irish language which is consistent with international best practice. The Strategy sets out a comprehensive approach to the preservation and promotion of the Irish language over a 20-year period from 2010 to 2030. The Strategy sets out nine areas for action, including education, the Gaeltacht, the family, public services, the media, the economy, legislation and various cross-cutting initiatives.

The Programme for Government 2011-2016 states that the Government will support the Strategy and will deliver the achievable goals proposed therein. The Government took a number of policy decisions on 31 May 2011 regarding the implementation structures for the Strategy and the new linguistic definition envisaged for the Gaeltacht. These decisions will be given statutory effect, as required, in the Gaeltacht Bill which is to be published in 2012, in accordance with the Government's Legislation Programme.

Since my Department has overarching responsibility for the Strategy, its implementation plan for 2011 has been published and its 2012-2014 implementation plan will be published following consultation with key stakeholders. In addition, a number of high-level working groups have been established with key stakeholders in order to progress the implementation of the Strategy.