Sinn Féin MLA Aisling Reilly has welcomed news that the British government is set to repeal its ban on the use of Irish language in courts.
This provision was included as part of a raft of measures in the 2022 Irish language act, although has not yet been enacted. It first came into effect in 1737. Similar laws in Scotland and Wales were removed in the 1800s.
“This is a hugely significant moment for Gaels in the north,” said the party’s spokesperson on the Irish language.
“This was one of many measures introduced into legislation in the Assembly to strengthen the Irish language and ensure it is accessible to all.
“For Irish speakers, this is another positive step in the right direction as the energetic revival of the language continues at pace.
“As we continue to build Gaeilge further in communities across the island, I am determined to push Irish forward, promoting it as a vibrant language to learn and use on a daily basis.”
