Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2021
300. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the position regarding Gaeltacht Irish courses for summer 2021 for Gaeltacht households, colleges and families (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24278/21]
View answerOn Friday last, I announced the outcome of the extensive consultation process undertaken with the Irish Language Summer Colleges sector over the past few weeks.
During the consultation process, a representative group of Gaeltacht households who provide accommodation for students, as well as course operators expressed significant concerns around health and safety, due to COVID-19, were courses to proceed.
On foot of the feedback received and the concerns expressed, a decision has been taken not to proceed with recognised Irish courses this summer.
I understand that this will be disappointing for many young people who were looking forward to attending this year.
I am also conscious of the economic consequences of the decision for Gaeltacht communities. For this reason, officials from my Department will continue to engage with the sector over the coming weeks with a view to progressing an appropriate stabilisation package, thus ensuring that the sector is put on a sound footing for a full and safe return in 2022 and beyond.
