Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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791. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will ensure that Eircode, in the introduction of the new postcode system, will have all placenames named and spelled correctly in their original Gaeilge as well as in English; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29620/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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The use of Eircode is voluntary, not mandatory and there will be no requirement to change existing addresses in Irish or English. The Eircode is simply appended to the existing address be it in English or Irish. With the exception of the existing Dublin district codes, all Eircodes will be neutral of location in both the English and Irish language which means that the seven digit code is considered data rather than language. The Irish language organisations are satisfied with this approach. Eircode in consultation with Conradh na Gaeilge and Foras na Gaeilge has produced bilingual promotional material and postcode notification letters that will be issued to all postal addresses in the State. Bilingual staff are available in the Eircode call centre to take calls from members of the public in Irish. The addresses in the Gaeltacht areas will receive their Eircode letter using the Irish form of their address.

I will continue to work with Irish language organisations to ensure that all elements of the project are in compliance with Irish language requirements.