The first submissions on how public bodies can improve the level and standard of services through Irish have been received by the Department of Finance.
Government Departments and other public bodies have been asked to start the process of drafting a scheme to ensure that a better availability and a higher standard of public services through Irish is provided in a coherent, planned and agreed fashion.
The measures have been introduced under the Official Languages Act, 2003, and inviting submissions from the public is the preliminary step. The Department of Finance received 17 submissions.
The groups which made presentations are: Taisce Árainn Teo, Radio na Gaeltachta, Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge, WITH (Women in the Home), Irish Translators and Interpreters Association, Comhluadar, Conradh na Gaeilge, Ciarraí Beo Teoranta and Coiste Oirthear Dhuibhneach.
The Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism has invited submissions before January 21st.
In September, the names of the first 25 public bodies to draft schemes were announced. These include seven Departments, the offices of the President, the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission, the Ombudsman/Information Commissioner, the Arts Council, universities, some health boards and county and town councils.
The Act is aimed at allowing Irish speakers to have access, over time, to as many services as possible in their language of choice.
It is intended that the scheme will serve as a practical model for 650 other public bodies.