The Central Applications Office Ltd has won its legal challenge to a ministerial decision designating it a “public body” under the Official Languages Act.
The designation had the effect of requiring the CAO to produce its official documents and conduct its business through Irish as well as English.
The three-judge Supreme Court yesterday found the Minister for Rural, Community and Gaeltacht Affairs acted in excess of his powers under the Official Languages Act 2003 when he decided in April 2006 to designate the CAO a “public body” within the meaning of the Act.
Given that finding, it allowed the CAO’s appeal against a High Court decision dismissing its challenge.