Parties to get tough on EU status for Irish language

THE Government will come under renewed pressure to lobby for the recognition of Irish as an EU language tomorrow.

Highlighting Ireland’s powerful position as EU President, opposition parties will attempt to embarrass the Taoiseach on this highly emotive issue for Irish language activists.

After their minor victory on their first joint effort over electronic voting last week, Fine Gael, the Labour Party and the Green Party have agreed on a joint motion calling on the Government to inform the EU of its wish to have the Irish language recognised as an official language of the EU.