Galway West Candidate Noel Thomas welcomes adoption of Independent Ireland policy for Gaeltacht and empowerment of Údarás na Gaeltachta

Galway West Candidate Noel Thomas welcomes adoption of Independent Ireland policy for Gaeltacht and empowerment of Údarás na Gaeltachta

Galway West Election candidate and Independent Ireland Spokesperson on Planning Reform, Cllr Noel Thomas, today welcomed the Government’s landmark recognition of the Gaeltacht in its new national housing plan and its commitment to strengthening the role of Údarás na Gaeltachta, saying the measures echo key policies put forward by Independent Ireland in its 2024 general election manifesto.

“It is tremendously encouraging to see Gaeltacht housing and planning being treated as a national priority. For the first time, the Government is formally recognising that the Gaeltacht is unique — and that access to a mix of suitable housing is vital for the sustainability of Irish-speaking communities,” said Cllr Thomas.

He continued: “The plan indicates that Údarás na Gaeltachta is envisaged to play a more central role, working alongside Irish Water and local authorities to help develop serviced sites and extend water and waste-water infrastructure so that homes can be built in Gaeltacht areas. That reflects the direction set out in our Independent Ireland manifesto in 2024.”

Independent Ireland’s manifesto called for additional resources and greater flexibility for Údarás na Gaeltachta, including powers to purchase land, support Irish-language housing development, and integrate social, cultural and linguistic goals into planning.

Cllr Thomas said the Government’s alignment with these proposals is further evidence that Independent Ireland’s policies are thoughtful, constructive and increasingly influential.

“The fact that the Government is adopting core Independent Ireland proposals shows how serious we were about planning reform in the Gaeltacht. This is not tokenism — it is a meaningful shift that can help preserve our Irish-speaking communities, sustain their populations, and protect their linguistic heritage.”

He also welcomed the commitment to publish a National Planning Statement for the Gaeltacht by the first half of 2027.

“This planning statement must be robust and actionable, so it doesn’t become a mere promise. We need clear guidelines, strong protections and measurable targets to ensure Gaeltacht housing isn’t sidelined again,” he said.

Cllr Thomas added that significant work still lies ahead.

“While this is a vital step forward, we must not rest on recognition alone. There must now be a real resource commitment, an effectively empowered Údarás na Gaeltachta, and accountability in delivery. Too many Gaeltacht families are still locked out of homes in their own communities, and the language is driven by the people who live there.

“We will continue to deliver positive solutions and policies that the Government, Údarás and other stakeholders can adopt to ensure this vision becomes a reality. Independent Ireland will continue to push for a planning system that respects linguistic heritage, supports Irish-speaking communities, and ensures that Gaeltacht regions can thrive into the future.”