Vol. 514 No. 3
295 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the idea of declaring the week up to St. Patrick's Day a "seachtain gaeilge", with a phrase a day of Irish supported on national radio, television and other media; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4247/00]
In the last two years "Seachtain na Gaeilge", which is organised by Conradh na Gaeilge has been given recognition by way of substantial financial assistance by my Department.
In 1999 I sanctioned a special grant of £17,000 to Conradh na Gaeilge in 1999 towards the cost of "Seachtain na Gaeilge 1999"; Conradh na Gaeilge – the organisation of events during the week; co-ordinated publicity for "Seachtain na Gaeilge" in the print and audiovisual media; and organised Irish language events in Dublin and Galway.
"Seachtain na Gaeilge 1999", which ran from March 10-17, was very successful and for this year I have sanctioned a special grant of £35,000 to Conradh na Gaeilge for "Seachtain na Gaeilge 2000". Conradh na Gaeilge has employed a project officer to: expand the week's activities, in co-operation with local authorities and sporting and cultural organisations; better publicise and co-ordinate the week's events; and assist other organisations and schools with the preparation of events.
