Gaeltacht planning protections
Deputy Farrell says a Gaeltacht protest wants stronger language and planning protections in the Bill and argues current safeguards are weaker than existing law. The Taoiseach replies that the planning system recognises Irish language use and that the Bill requires planning strategies including protection of linguistic and cultural heritage.
Gabhaim buíochas leis an gCeann Comhairle. Bhí agóid taobh amuigh de Theach Laighean inniu le daoine a bhí bailithe ó chuile cheann de na Gaeltachtaí chun aird a tharraingt ar an gá le hathrú suntasach ar an mBille um Pleanáil agus Forbairt (Leasú). Tá siad ag éileamh go mbeidh a gcearta teanga san áireamh sa Bhille nua agus go mbeidh an Ghaeltacht lárnach sna comhráite faoin reachtaíocht. Faoi láthair, tá na cosaintí don Ghaeltacht níos laige sa Bhille molta ná sa dlí mar atá sé anois agus cheana féin, níl daoine Gaeltachta in ann teach a thógáil, nó a aimsiú fiú, ina gceantar féin. Mar gheall air sin tá siad ag mothú go bhfuil bánú ag teacht ar an nGaeltacht. An nglacfaidh an Rialtas le leasuithe chun tithíocht agus todhchaí a chinntiú do phobal na Gaeltachta?
This relates to the protest outside the Dáil today in relation to planning, particularly in the Gaeltacht. Many people feel they cannot, build, buy or rent in Gaeltacht areas, specifically with reference to the Bill today.
Comment on this
Gabhaim buíochas leis an Teachta as a cuid ceisteanna agus gabhaim buíochas leis an ateangaire.
I am advised the planning system in Ireland recognises the importance of continued daily use of the Irish language, especially in Gaeltacht areas. Section 46 of the Bill places an obligation on planning authorities to prepare, as part of a city or county development plan, a strategy relating to the creation, improvement and preservation of sustainable places and communities. This includes a provision relating to the protection of linguistic and cultural heritage, including the protection of Irish as the community language of Gaeltacht areas and in the functional area to which development plans relate. The guidelines state planning authorities should ensure development plans have regard to the provisions of the language plan and include objectives to support the promotion of the Irish language in Gaeltacht areas.