Irish language receives official EU status

The Irish language is an official language of the EU this morning.

From now on, EU documents and communiques will have to be translated directly, and Ireland's MEPs and Commissioner will be allowed to speak it during official business.

Gaeltacht Minister Eamon O'Cuiv says it is not before time.

“Its fortunes have improved in the last century as its status has improved,” he said.

“Its status now in Europe adds a whole new dimension to the Irish language. But I also think it is important to see the Irish language as the oldest vernacular language that is still spoken in the European Union that is basically the same language that was there 2,000 years ago.”