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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 6

Written Answers. - Sign Language.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

732 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on Irish sign language both as a teaching language and the first language of deaf people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9001/98]

I am aware of recent developments in some Scandinavian countries in the increased use of indigenous sign language. It is my view that at present Irish sign language may be regarded as the first language of a very small minority of deaf children whose deaf parents use this language. The question of using Irish sign language as a teaching language is a complex one. In this regard the needs and particular circumstances of each individual child must be considered in consultation with the parents.

The needs of children with impaired hearing vary widely and it is not appropriate for my Department to prescribe one teaching language for all of them. Pupils with impaired hearing are educated in varied settings and the teaching approaches used by teachers in those settings reflect primarily the needs and abilities of the pupils. There is, accordingly, some use of Irish sign language particularly in special schools and special classes.

I have consulted representatives of those parents who have expressed a desire to have their children taught from the beginning through the medium of Irish sign language and steps are being taken to facilitate this. In addition, the in-career development unit of my Department is providing funding for the training of teachers in Irish sign language.

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