McGuinness critical of Government's lack of Gaeltacht support

While welcoming the Údarás na Gaeltachta announcement of a new enterprise centre for the Déise, Waterford Sinn Féin TD, Deputy Conor McGuinness expressed criticism of the Government for what he said are its failures regarding the Gaeltacht.

However, Deputy McGuinness, who is his party's spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, warmly welcomed the announcement by Údarás na Gaeltachta that funding will be provided to appoint a design team for a new Enterprise Centre in the Waterford Gaeltacht, in An Rinn.

Commenting on the matter, Deputy McGuinness said: "This investment by Údarás na Gaeltachta is a positive and important step forward. This support for job creation and economic growth in An Rinn is hugely important. Gaeltacht communities like this are full of talent and potential, and they must receive ongoing support."

Deputy McGuinness also commended Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise for their work in advancing the project.

"I previously had the opportunity to work with this organisation as the Language Planning Officer for Gaeltacht na nDéise, and I know firsthand the dedication and commitment they have to the development and strengthening of their community," he said.

However, Deputy McGuinness also highlighted the significant challenges still facing the Gaeltacht and the Government’s failings in that regard.

"Economic development alone is not enough to safeguard the future of the Gaeltacht," he said.

"There is an urgent need for investment in social and affordable housing, and in serviced sites across Gaeltacht areas," he added.

He also said there was an "indefensible delay" in the publication of the Gaeltacht planning guidelines and commented that without a clear planning strategy and adequate housing provision, it will be impossible for young people to stay in their native communities and raise their families.

He issued a stark warning regarding the future of the Gaeltacht: "The housing crisis is a direct threat to the survival of the Gaeltacht. If the current situation continues, there will be a significant decline in the number of native Irish speakers and the vitality of the Gaeltacht communities. The Gaeltacht cannot be protected without living, thriving communities."

He also called for stronger public and essential services in Gaeltacht areas including the likes of post offices, healthcare, and public transport - which he said must be strong and accessible in every Gaeltact area.

"Communities cannot develop without proper service infrastructure," he said.

Deputy McGuinness said the Government had missed opportunities and expressed disappointment at the Government parties' refusal to accept Sinn Féin’s amendments to the Údarás na Gaeltachta Bill, which would have created a fully democratised board and granted additional powers to tackle the housing crisis in the Gaeltacht. 

"There is an urgent need for new powers and strategic planning to meet the needs of Gaeltacht communities," he said.

"Sinn Féin stands firmly with the Gaeltacht communities, with the families who want to live, work, and preserve the language in their own areas," he added. "Words are not enough, real action is now urgently needed."