Sinn Fein accuses DUP of '˜living in denial' over Irish language

Sinn Fein has accused the DUP of taking 'one step forward and then 10 backwards' after high-profile party figures emphatically ruled out DUP support for an Irish language act.
Máirtín O MuilleoirMáirtín O Muilleoir
Máirtín O Muilleoir

On Monday, DUP leader Arlene Foster had appeared to soften her stance on an act, just three months after ruling it out categorically.

“I said there wouldn’t be an Irish language act in the context of nothing else happening in terms of culture and language,” Mrs Foster said.

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However, East Londonderry DUP candidate Gregory Campbell attempted to clarify his party’s stance in a typically straightforward manner on Tuesday, saying: “There will be no Irish language act. We have said that all along and that is what we are saying now.”

Strangford DUP candidate Jim Shannon said Mrs Foster’s position was unchanged.

“I certainly did not get the impression that she is softening her attitude,” he said.

Responding, Sinn Fein MLA Mairtín O Muilleoir said: “The DUP appear to take one step forward and then 10 backwards. They are still in denial when it comes to a right-based society.

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“The Irish language community is playing catch-up when it comes to having their cultural identity recognised and treated with respect.”

He added: “The DUP need to realise that the Orange one-party state is gone for good and the way ahead is to treat their neighbours with respect.

“No longer can they treat those of us who cherish our Irish cultural identity with disdain or deny us our rights.

“Attempts by the DUP to turn the clock back will not work.”