Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on whether the Government should include the Irish language and the Gaeltacht in the Education and Training Boards Bill 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52943/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The 20 year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010 to 2030 promotes an integrated approach to the Irish Language which is consistent with best international practice. The Government has committed to supporting strategy in the programme for Government 2011 to 2016.

The Deputy will be aware that Vocational Education Committees are public bodies which fall within the terms of the Official Languages Act 2003. It is intended that the Education and Training Boards Bill 2012 will preserve this position and Education and Training Boards will be obliged to meet the relevant Irish language requirements.

In the circumstances, I am satisfied that the new Education and Training Boards will be in a position to meet their requirements in relation to the Irish Language and to the Gaeltacht without specific provisions being made in the Bill.