South and East Belfast Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Disappointment But No Surprise At Poots Statement

Published: 16 October, 2007

South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey has expressed his disappointment at the position the Minister for Culture and Arts has taken on Irish Language Act.

Mr Maskey said:

"Unfortunately Edwin Poots' statement to the Assembly today comes as no surprise to Sinn Féin and Irish language activists. It is however a grave disappointment. The Irish speaking community is one which is constantly growing and it is a lobby which cannot be ignored.

The Irish language belongs to all the people of this island. No one should fear its use or growth. Unfortunately people have used it as a political football and have not embraced it for the treasure that it is."

Echoing Gerry Adams' remarks, Mr Maskey further added:

"Edwin Poots as Culture Minister should have been long-sighted on this matter. He was in a unique position to show mature leadership. The Irish language threatens no one. It is not compulsory. Irish language rights threaten no one.

"The revival of the Irish language has been our country's cultural success story. More and more people are using Irish. Young children in particular are being educated in increasing numbers through the medium of Irish and it is their future and their rights that must be secured through legislation.

"It is therefore unfortunate that the Minister has taken today's course of action and this is certainly not in the spirit of a new local Assembly.

"Sinn Féin have long argued for an Irish language Act which recognizes the rights of Irish speakers. This attempt to renege on this legislation will be challenged by Sinn Féin through the executive.

"It is with regret that the DUP and UUP have used this issue as a political football rather than an administrative subject. The last two weeks have seen attacks in the chamber on the language ad nauseum.

"Irish language legislation is not a demonstration of strength by Sinn Féin, however, this morning is a clear sign of weakness by certain sections of Unionism.

"However I am sure that language rights, a non-contraversial issue throughout the world, will in the time ahead be achieved in Ireland. They shall not be stifled."

Cultural Officer for South and East Belfast Sinn Féin, Niall Ó Donnghaile added:

"Regardless of today's events bealach amhain nó bealach eile one way or another there will be an Irish Language Act."