Cllr Walk Out On Irish Language Discussion Signifies Continued Insulting of Irish Language
Aontú Rep for East Derry, Gemma Brolly, has hit out at the shameful walk out by elected Cllrs on a discussion of the Irish language at a Council meeting, and ignoring the concerns of their constituents.
Rep Brolly:
“As a member of “Causeway Coast and Glens Council Area”, it is extremely disheartening to learn that councillors acting as our representatives, walked out of a meeting on February 18th 2021, during a presentation on the status of the Irish language and the importance of provision of the Irish language within council By walking out of a meeting which was of great importance to many in this locality, these councillors have failed to represent many of their constituents and have also shown inability to carry out their duties with respect. This marks just another example of the continued denigration of the Irish language by certain elected politicians and the failure to respect cultural and historical traditions in the North equally.”
“Aontú believe in the promotion and use of the Irish language without discrimination and will no longer accept its’ use a political baton. There has been no political consequence for certain politicians to denigrating the Irish language, Aontú will ensure there is a political cost and accountability for such actions. Also, it is worth noting that as Local Government employees, these councillors are in breach of the Code of Conduct for Local Government Employees. To insult the Irish language, these Cllrs willingly broke Code of Conduct requirements to make a partisan political statement – this cannot continue.”
