Liam Quaide (Cork East, Social Democrats)
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247. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if his Department has assessed the impact of the housing crisis on the Irish language, as native speakers are forced out of rural Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26171/25]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Although Údarás na Gaeltachta, the Gaeltacht development agency currently under the aegis of my Department, has a secondary role in relation to the issue of housing provision in the Gaeltacht, the Board of Údarás na Gaeltachta is looking at ways in which an tÚdarás can support the provision of affordable housing in Gaeltacht areas across the country. Indeed, an tÚdarás has indicated that the issue of housing is a permanent item on the agenda of the board.

I understand that there are sites currently owned by Údarás na Gaeltachta which have been identified by the organisation as potential development sites for housing. I understand that these sites are located close to other housing developments or community services. Údarás na Gaeltachta has indicated that it now intends to contact other key stakeholders to see if they would be interested in developing these sites. In addition, An tÚdarás intends to work with relevant partners to address various challenges in relation to the general provision and availability of housing in Gaeltacht areas.

I understand that Minister Calleary recently met with the Chief Executive and Chair of Údarás na Gaeltachta regarding the organisation’s work plans, including how improved housing provision can increase employment and enable economic development in Gaeltacht areas.

Ongoing engagement with colleagues in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, as well as local authorities, other agencies and Government departments, is vital as it relates to the issue of housing and I understand that Minister Calleary will be meeting with his colleague, Minister James Browne, to discuss infrastructure matters, including housing and planning in the Gaeltacht, in the coming period.