§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
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. [HL144]
§ The Lord President of the Council (Baroness Amos)The Irish Language Broadcast Fund, which is expected to come on stream early next 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.