MP calls on Government to honour commitment to Irish Language Act

A decision not to proceed with a promise to deliver an Irish Language Act before the upcoming Assembly Election has been condemned by Newry and Armagh MP Mickey Brady.

Mr Brady said “Brandon Lewis agreed and promised to deliver on the commitment of an Irish language Act with accelerated passage by October 2021. That date passed without delivery or any credible defence from Brandon Lewis. If Acht Gaeilge remains undelivered it represents a serious breach of yet another agreement by this Tory Government."

The MP believes the UK Government underestimates the determination of the Irish speaking community and the momentum behind the campaign for the official status of the language to be recognised by the state and rights enshrined in law.

He added “There is an onus also on the Irish government to stand up decisively for the rights of Irish language speakers, and to the British government who must honour its obligations under the political agreements they have made.”