Theresa Ahearn
Ceist:29 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to make sign language an official language; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21600/97]
Written Answers. - Sign Language.
It is now widely accepted that sign language is a language in its own right. I am aware that sign language is the first language of a significant number of deaf people in this country.
In this context the assessed needs of each individual child are of central importance when, in consultation with that child's parents, decisions are being made regarding appropriate educational provision.
In keeping with this child-centred approach my Department's policy is to continue to recognise sign language as an appropriate medium of communication in teaching deaf children who do not have adequate access to spoken language. Provision for these children will continue to be made to the highest possible standard and will take full cognisance of recent thinking and research, for example, on the subject of bilingual education for deaf children.