A chara - Meabh Ni Chathain, Bord na Gaeilge, asserted inter alia (Marta 11, 1997): "The State is making solid progress in promoting and encouraging bilingualism ..." In fact, the State is trying to coerce many of us into accepting compulsory English, is hindering the spread of the Gaelscoileanna, and, in general, is not providing for the effective teaching of Irish (or of English either, for that matter).
For some 20 years, children have been leaving primary and secondary schools in this State without an adequate knowledge of
Irish and English grammar. As to coercion into accepting compulsory English, may I refer to a recent experience, one of many? I am writing for more than three months for a bilingual form, or one in Irish, which must be completed if I am to be considered, as an old age pensioner, for a reduction in the cost of electricity used in my home, and a free TV licence.
I have been told officially that the Minister involved, Mr. de Rossa, had ordered an inquiry; since then, silence from his office. Conradh na Gaeilge, Bord na Gaeilge, the Ombudsman, and some politicians have involved themselves on my behalf, but without success so far, as the form to be completed is as far away as ever. Cothrom na Feinne? The State doing its best to provide a bilingual service?
What we need is a law, giving us equal rights with English speakers to use the language of our choice when dealing with the State.
As for Kevin Myers, bail O Dhia air, he appears to be directing his rage in the wrong direction. It would appear that he is so angry at not knowing Irish, he attacks the wrong target. I and, I feel sure, many others would be glad to help him to learn and enjoy the language. - Is mise,
Pairc Leaca na Sceiche,
Dun Laoghaire.
. The writer has told us that shortly after sending in his letter for publication in this paper, he had received, at last, an Irish language version of the form sought, SL/GN1. However, the explanatory booklet, SW39, had not accompanied SL/GN1. Thus, as he put it, he was still awaiting Godot. - Editor, IT