A TD is calling for the Irish language to be given equal status as English on all road signs.
Peadar Tóibín has introduced a bill pushing for the Irish text on signs to be of "equal size" to the English text, as he believes English is currently given "undue prominence".
The Aontú leader suggests it's one small measure that could be introduced to help ensure Irish continues to be used in communities.
On Newstalk Breakfast, Deputy Tóibín said it's a simple idea that wouldn't cost any money.
He observed: “The bill states only when road signs are replaced will this come into effect - so no road sign will be replaced unless it’s being replaced as part of its natural life cycle.
“In that situation, when new road signs are put up, they would include the new font - which just gives parity to both languages.
“It’s not going to solve all the problems, but it’s one of the steps the Government can take to reverse what’s happening to our language.”
The Aontú TD said Irish language is an irreplaceable part of our culture, but there has been a "language collapse" in recent generations.
He observed: “It is possible that our generation could be the last generation in which Irish is spoken as a community language in the Gaeltacht.
“I think there’s a massive responsibility on our generation to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
He also argued that the population is generally 'massively positive' towards the Irish language, and it's government policies that have driven anglicisation.
A recent study by Conradh na Gaeilge suggested that many people would choose an Irish-language Gaelscoil for their children if available.
Deputy Tóibín said the demand is there, but only around 5% of schools in the country teach students primarily through Irish.
