State fails to translate Irish plan into action

THE full implementation of Irish as an official and working language of the European Union, which was due to come into effect yesterday, has been delayed because the Government has failed to recruit enough interpreters.

It was agreed in June 2005 that Irish would become the 21st language of the EU following a campaign by the Government. But it has emerged the Government has failed to fulfil the criteria set out by the EU when official status was granted.

This is despite offering €300 per day or €90,000 a year for nine interpreters who need to be recruited.