Language Body

Foras na Gaeilge has the objective of promoting the Irish Language on an all-island basis. As well as taking over the functions of Bord na Gaeilge, a wide range of functions were given to the Agency to add to its effectiveness in the promotion of Irish, for example, in the area of education, dictionaries and terminology. It also took over the functions of An Gúm in relation to publications.

Maighréad Uí Mháirtín is Chair of Foras na Gaeilge and there are 15 other members on the Board. Ferdie Mac an Fhailigh appointed as new Chief Executive in July 2006.

The legislative remit of the Ulster-Scots Agency is "the promotion of greater awareness and the use of Ullans and of Ulster-Scots cultural issues, both within Northern Ireland and throughout the island".

Mr Mark Thompson is the Chair of the Ulster-Scots Agency and there are 7 other members on the Board.

The Agency has established its main office in Belfast and has a subsidiary office in Donegal. The Agency currently employs ten members of staff and it is planned to recruit further members of staff in order to deliver the programme of work which is set out in the Agency's Corporate Plan. The Agency also developed its corporate identity during the past year.

The Agency, in partnership with the University of Ulster, has established the Institute of Ulster-Scots studies at the Magee Campus. The Agency undertakes the development of strategies for linguistic and educational programs and research.

The Exchange of Notes between the British and Irish Governments on 19 November 2002 (Cmnd 5708), provides for decisions and actions relating to the Implementation Bodies and Tourism Ireland Limited or their respective functions to be taken by the two Governments. The following decisions have been taken under The Exchange of Notes.