Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Dec 1997

Vol. 484 No. 4

Written Answers - Irish Language Programme.

Ulick Burke

Question:

124 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the policy, if any, he has to improve the morale among classroom teachers of Irish at primary and second level who see their subject and Irish lessons being abandoned for more rewarding curricular activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22443/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

Irish is an essential element of the school curriculum at both primary and second levels. All pupils are required to study the language unless granted an exemption from doing so.

As made clear in the Government's policy document, An Action Programme for the Millennium, I am committed to a thorough review of the methods used to teach Irish in schools and to the establishment of a resource centre to facilitate learning the language.

Teachers at both primary and second levels are enabled to participate as full partners in syllabus design and review through their representatives on NCCA committee.

A review of the primary curriculum, including Irish, has almost been completed by representative committees under the aegis of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). After this work has been brought to fruition, a revised Irish programme for primary schools together with detailed guidelines for teachers will be published. These will be followed by a comprehensive programme of in-career development for teachers and the publication of new teaching resources and materials.

At second level, a comprehensive process of review and revision of syllabi and examinations has been completed. Provision is made for the teaching of Irish at three levels — Bonnleibhéal, Gnáthleibhéal and Ardleibhéal — to pupils preparing for the Junior Certificate and for the established Leaving Certificate, and to those following the Leaving Certificate vocational programme. This ensures that all pupils have the opportunity of studying Irish at a level appropriate to their particular needs and aptitudes. Gaeilge Chumarsáideach within the leaving certificate applied combines a practical orientation with a strong emphasis on active learning methodologies. All these programmes are sufficiently flexible to allow teachers to adapt their approaches to the particular needs of their pupils. Support is provided through comprehensive guidelines for teachers and through quality in-career development and support programmes.