asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development the plans for the proposed development of our offshore non-Gaeltacht islands.

My proposals in respect of the non-Gaeltacht islands are at present being finalised and they will be put before the Government as soon as possible. I shall be in a position to make an announcement when the Government have taken a decision in the matter.

Is the Minister saying that it is right for Gaelic-speaking islanders to be given financial benefits in excess of the benefits given to non-Gaelic-speaking islanders?

The Deputy is raising a question about the relationship of policy towards Gaeltacht and non-Gaeltacht areas. I do not wish to debate such a policy question in reply to a specific question about the position of certain islands.