Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Apr 1996

Vol. 464 No. 3

Written Answers. - Irish Language Sector.

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

86 Mr. O'Dea asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, she has to make separate arrangements for the Irish language sector in view of her plans to establish ten regional education councils; her views on whether this sector merits separate consideration and a separate organisational arrangement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8052/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

It is my policy that proper provision be made for the Irish language in all schools. All arrangements for the Irish language sector are made in this context. The White Paper, Charting Our Education Future, proposes the establishment of ten regional education boards. Drafting of the necessary legislation has already started.

The Government has a definite and positive policy towards the Irish language. Education boards will be obliged to implement this policy. I would be concerned that the establishment of a separate board for the Irish language sector would diminish the status of the language and reduce the emphasis placed on the Irish language by the other boards. For this reason, I do not propose to establish a separate board for the Irish language sector. I am, however, confident that the education boards will be fully competent to implement the Government's policy towards the Irish language.

The White Paper indicates that each board must provide for the systematic planning and coordination of the provision of education in its area; provide a range of support services to the schools; ensure the empowerment and participation of local communities in the education system; and provide fully in the educational system for the diversity which exists in the community, including the Gaeltacht community and the community of all-Irish schools.

Education boards will have the following advantages when dealing with the Irish language. They will be located close to the schools and to the communities which they will serve and each board will be empowered to establish committees and/or specialist groups to advise and assist, as appropriate, in the implementation of policy. It is clear, therefore, that the education boards will be empowered to service the Irish language sector.

My Department is currently having discussions with the interested parties in order to explore the ways in which the specific needs of the Irish language sector can be met in the context of the education boards.