At the outset, I wish to inform the Deputy that the question of access to second level education through Irish is primarily a matter for the Department of Education and Skills.
In the context of its responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030, however, my Department works in close cooperation with a number of key stakeholders, including the Department of Education and Skills. In that regard, my Department maintains regular contact with these stakeholders with regard to progressing the implementation of a number of important measures, including educational measures, under the Strategy.
Given the critical role of education in achieving the objectives detailed in the 20-Year Strategy, I can assure the Deputy that this close co-operation will continue to be a priority and I look forward to engaging with my colleague, Richard Bruton, TD, Minister for Education and Skills, in relation to these matters.