Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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303. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will clarify if the concept of Irish language networks is being expanded to encompass new areas outside of Clondalkin, Ennis and Loughrea; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10975/22]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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Foras na Gaeilge's new Scéim Forbartha Líonraí Gaeilge / Irish Language Network Development Scheme, which has 3 stages, will commence operation this year, with the primary goal being the facilitation of communities in achieving statutory Irish Language Network status in the long-term.

The scheme is being developed in line with national language planning principals and policy and will provide for 28 Irish Language Development Officers working in 28 communities throughout the island, north and south.

Currently, there are 6 communities at Stage 2 (Carlow town; Monaghan town; Kildare town; Tallaght; Dublin Central and Limerick City), working towards Stage 3 which constitutes recognition as an Irish Language Network.

I am informed that Foras na Gaeilge will be investing €4.3m of its baseline North South Language Body budget into the scheme over the next 3 years.