Galway is to become Ireland's only "Gaeltacht Service City" as part of government plans to enhance the role of the Irish language.

The proposal is part of the Gaeltacht Bill which is being debated and voted on in the Dail this week.

The measure provides for key support areas such as Galway City, Dingle and Dungarvan to be designated as "Gaeltacht Sevice" areas.

Under the plan, Udaras elections would be scrapped and the number of board members would also be reduced to 12.

All stages of the Bill are to be debated this week before the Dail adjourns for summer recess [Thurs Jul 19].

Speaking to Galway Bay fm news, Galway West Deputy Sean Kyne says Galway would have a key role to play as Ireland's only service city