Comments on the use of Irish by Protestants criticised in the north
February 4, 2014
Speaking at a rally to establish parade routes in North Belfast at the weekend, a senior member of the Orange Order warned Protestants who are learning Irish that “it’s part of the republican agenda”.
George Chittick, who is the Orange Order Belfast County Grand Master, claimed that the Irish-speaking community intends for Irish to have the same legal staus as English and that eventually, both languages would be a requirement for jobs.
According to Chittick, the language has been politicised by the Republican movement and, instead of seeking money for Irish language projects, Protestants should be funding initiatives that create employment in the community.
Chittick’s comments have been criticised by several groups including politicians, activists, and in particular Irish Language Development Officer with the East Belfast Mission, Linda Ervine.
Ervine said that Chittick’s comments have been rejected by many people in East Belfast, where over 120 people are taking part in the Turas project, which promotes language awareness among the Protestant community in the north through running classes in the community.
Ervine invited Chittick to visit the centre on the Newtownards Road where people from all types of groups and backgrounds are taking part in Irish classes.
Following the comments made at the weekend, the Orange Order said that the party has not adopted an official stance on the Irish language and while there are clear historical connections between the language and the Protestant community, any decision was a matter for individual conscience.
A recent report by the European Council Committee of Experts on the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages found that hostile attitudes persisted towards the Irish language in Stormont and sharply criticised the British Government and Northern Ireland Assembly for the “block” put on the language.
The Committee of Experts has advised that legislation is required to protect the Irish language and is strongly urging both authorities to provide an appropriate legislative base for the protection and promotion of Irish in the north.
Foilsithe ar Gaelport.com
