SECRETARY of State Hilary Benn has been told that he will have to intervene if the DUP continues with its opposition to Irish language rights. Mr Benn was reminded of his responsibilities during a meeting with Conradh na Gaeilge at Glór na Móna on the Whiterock Road. During the meeting the Irish language delegation welcomed the Repeal of the 1737 ban on Irish in courts in the North which was announced by the Secretary of State in February this year, as well as his positive comments around dual-language signage at Grand Central Station. Speaking after the meeting Conchúr Ó Muadaigh, Advocacy Manager with Conradh na Gaeilge, said: “The meeting focused around our concerns regarding increased opposition from the DUP and others to the Irish language in recent weeks, including opposition to dual-language signage at Grand Central Station, the consistent blocking by the Deputy First Minister of a new funding model for Foras na Gaeilge and the delays by the Communities Minister Gordon Lyons in bringing forward a new Irish language Strategy, delays which have resulted in a third Judicial Review challenge.
