Vol. 575 No. 3
168 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the regulations regarding the compulsory studying of the Irish language by students who move to Ireland from other countries to attend primary school; the age levels for same; the circumstances under which a derogation might be allowed to enable them not to have to study Irish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28050/03]
As part of the primary school curriculum Irish is a compulsory subject. Exemption from the study of Irish may, however, be granted to primary pupils under certain circumstances outlined in Department circular 12/96. Under the terms of the circular, delegated authority to grant exemptions from Irish, within the conditions laid down, is vested in the individual school authority. Children attending primary school who have moved to Ireland may receive exemption from the study of Irish if their primary education up to 11 years of age was received in Northern Ireland or outside Ireland, provided the parent or guardian who had custody of the pupil was permanently resident in Northern Ireland or outside Ireland during the pupil's period of education up to that age. Exemptions may also be granted to pupils who were previously enrolled as recognised pupils in primary schools and who are being re-enrolled after a period spent abroad, provided at least three years have elapsed since the previous enrolment in the State and the pupils are at least 11 years of age on re-enrolment.
Pupils from abroad who have no understanding of English when enrolled are be required to study one language only, either Irish or English. Children of foreigners who are diplomatic or consular representatives in Ireland can be granted exemptions as may children from other countries resident in this country as political refugees and children with a learning disability of such a degree of severity that they fail to achieve expected levels of attainment in basic language skills in the mother tongue. In the last case, exemption from Irish may be considered under paragraph 1(c) of circular 12/96 provided a qualified psychologist confirms that such disability exists.
Children who have been assessed as having a general learning disability due to serious sensory impairment and who are also failing to attain adequate levels in basic language skills in the mother tongue may also receive an exemption if supported by a report from an appropriate medical specialist.
