Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2005
134 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will reform the entry requirements for teacher training in order that Irish is brought into line with English and mathematics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32703/05]
View answerMy Department specifies the minimum academic requirements for entry to primary teacher training courses provided in the colleges of education. As part of these requirements, all candidates, including school leavers, mature students and university graduates, must have secured a minimum of a grade C in higher level Irish in the leaving certificate, or an approved equivalent. This requirement covers both the written and oral element of a student's proficiency in Irish. My Department considers this required entry level to be the minimum standard in Irish necessary for students entering a teacher training course which will equip them to teach Irish to pupils at all levels in primary schools. I have no plans to change the entry requirements to primary teacher training courses at present.
