asked the Minister for Education what steps he has taken to encourage and promote the Irish language throughout the education system.

As indicated in our election manifesto, this Government are committed to encouraging and promoting the Irish language throughout the education system. This will be done in consultation with Bord na Gaeilge by intensifying, and extending where necessary, our assistance to all-Irish schools and to other schools interested in making a special effort in this matter and by seeking a fresh impetus in relation to the provision of suitable textbooks.

An bhfuil an tAire sásta leis na deontaisí atá ann faoi láthair?

Is mian liomsa iad a mhéadú, agus tá súil agam go mbeidh mé ábalta é sin a dhéanamh, ach caithfidh mé a bheith ag caint go bog leis an Aire Airgeadais. Tá an dualgas sin orainn go léir—tuigeann an Teachta é sin.