HL Deb 02 February 2005 vol 669 cc40-1WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord President on 14 January (WA 83), whether it is still their policy to create an Irish Language Film and Television Fund; if so, when; and what similar arrangements are to be put in place for Ulster-Scots under the policy of parity of esteem. [HL1029]

Baroness Amos

The Irish Language Broadcast Fund, which is expected to come on stream early this year, stems from a commitment in the Joint Declaration made by the UK and Irish Governments in April 2003. There was also a commitment to encourage support to be made available for an Ulster-Scots academy. I can confirm that the Government have given equal attention to both commitments and have earmarked a similar level of resources for both. My honourable friend the Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure is currently considering a business case for an Ulster-Scots academy.