Executive facing legal challenge on Irish language strategy

Conradh na Gaeilge was granted High Court leave to seek a judicial review amid claims the administration is in breach of a statutory duty.

The organisation wants a judge to make an order for the Executive to adopt a blueprint for enhancing and protecting the language’s development.

A 20-year strategy for Irish was published last year following consultation by former Culture Minister Caral ni Chuilin.

According to Conradh na Gaeilge’s case the failure to implement a plan covering the period 2015-2035 represents an unlawful failure to comply with the 1998 Northern Ireland Act.

Lawyers for the body also contend that the government is committed to implementing a European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.

In court on Tuesday Karen Quinlivan QC, for Conradh na Gaeilge, revealed that the respondents have conceded an arguable case has been established.

“The essential issue is that there’s no strategy,” she added.

Tony McGleenan QC, for the Executive, said he needed time to consult with officials on additional grounds of challenge.

Granting leave to apply for a judicial review, Mr Justice Colton listed the case for an update in September.

Outside court Conradh na Gaeilge’s general secretary, Julian de Spainn, urged the Executive to implement the strategy rather than prolonging the legal action.

“All they have to do is comply with the law,” he said.

Mr de Spainn stressed that Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK that doesn’t have legislative protection for a minority language.

He added: “This strategy is not about forcing anybody to use Irish, it’s to help the development and provide support for those who wish to use it.”