A compromise must be found on the Irish language in Northern Ireland, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Éamon Ó Cuív has said.
Northern Ireland Culture Minister Edwin Poots decided this week against introducing an Irish Language Act - even though it is enshrined in last year's St Andrew's Agreement.
Sixty-five per cent of people who participated in a public consultation process supported the legislation, but Mr Poots claimed it would prove too divisive and expensive to introduce.
Mr Ó Cuív met the Democratic Unionist Party Minister in Co Fermanagh yesterday as they unvield the latest phase of the Ulster Canal project.
Mr Ó Cuív said afterwards: "The Act is a commitment in the St Andrew's Agreement and I hope that all political parties will work together to find a way forward.
"I have noted what Mr Poots has said, but with goodwill on all sides we can move forward from where we are."
Mr Poots said he will consult Stormont committees to explore a more cost-effective Irish language strategy.
Mr Ó Cuív added: "Since the Northern Ireland Executive was set up I have had a good working relationship with Minister Poots. I will play my part as the minister in the Republic with direct responsibility for the Irish language."
PA