Belfast City Council has approved an Irish Language Policy after an eight-month legal dispute.

The policy commits the council to increasing the visibility and use of Irish across its services, facilities, and communications. It includes bilingual corporate branding and signage in council buildings.

The policy was passed by councillors in October but was paused after a judicial review brought by TUV member Ann McClure. Justice McLaughlin dismissed the challenge in April, ruling the council's call-in procedures were valid.

Chief Executive John Walsh confirmed the outcome at a full council meeting on Monday evening.

Sinn Féin councillor Tomás Ó Néill said the policy, backed by a £1.9 million investment, focuses on promoting the rights of Irish language speakers and increasing visibility for the language.

Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin of Conradh na Gaeilge said the policy was developed over nearly a decade in line with the Good Friday Agreement and international guidance. Cuisle Nic Liam, Language Rights Coordinator with Conradh na Gaeilge, said the policy places Irish as an official language of the council and will ensure greater visibility across the city.

The policy was originally called in by Unionist councillors after the October vote.