DUP using Irish language as a ‘political football’, say activists

Martin McGuinness complaining of ‘crude and crass bigotry’ towards the language

Martin McGuinness has complained of ‘crude and crass DUP bigotry’ towards the Irish language Getty

Activists have urged the DUP to stop using the Irish language as a “political football” in its bitter battle with Sinn Féin.

The DUP’s recent actions include the renaming of a fisheries protection boat in English instead of Irish. DUP Minister for Education Peter Weir then ordered the removal of Irish language text from his department’s website within hours of taking office. And the DUP also withdrew £50,000 (€57,000) in funding for a ...