Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 July 2015
336. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the measures being taken to encourage increased enrolment in Irish colleges and the learning of Irish, with reference to the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29311/15]
View answerUnder the Irish Language Learners Scheme (Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge), my Department provides assistance to Gaeltacht households which accommodate students attending Irish colleges in the Gaeltacht. While my Department does not provide direct support for students attending Irish colleges in the Gaeltacht, I am aware that scholarships are provided from time to time by various Irish language, cultural and sports organisations, as well as by several local authorities. I am also aware that some of the Irish colleges themselves offer part scholarships. The report entitled Tionchar na gColáistí Gaeilge ar an Teanga agus ar Phobal na Gaeltachta contains an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats relating to the Irish colleges in the Gaeltacht. The findings of the study, which was published earlier this year, are mostly positive regarding the impact of the Irish colleges. My Department will be examining the report’s conclusions, in cooperation with the Department of Education and Skills, in the context of future policy with regard to the Irish colleges. In addition, my Department will be engaging in discussions with Comhchoiste Náisiúnta na gColáistí Samhraidh (CONCOS), the federation of Irish colleges, regarding the report's recommendations, including ways to improve access to the Irish colleges.
