Denis Naughten
Ceist:528 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans, in view of the multicultural mix in many schools to review compulsory Irish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20151/03]
Written Answers. - School Curriculum.
Due to the special position of Irish in the Constitution there is a constitutional obligation to provide for the central role of Irish as the first language in schools and to respect pupils' rights in this matter. Schools and teachers are advised to provide for pupils of varying abilities through curriculum differentiation and the curriculum in Irish lends itself to such differentiation.
Exemption from the study of Irish may be granted to primary and post primary pupils under certain circumstances outlined in Department circulars 12/96 and 10/96 respectively. Under the terms of the circulars delegated authority to grant exemptions from Irish, within the conditions laid down, has been vested in the individual school authority.
A wide ranging review of senior cycle education is taking place at present under the auspices of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA. The review which involves a wide consultative process seeks the views of principals, teachers, parents, students and other interested individuals and groups as to how senior cycle should develop and be shaped into the future.
I look forward to the report from the NCCA on the review of senior cycle education. On the basis of the report's recommendations I will decide what action should be taken to meet the evolving language needs of a multicultural learning society while at the same time recognising that each citizen has a constitutional right to access his/her heritage and to enrich it within the overall provisions of the educational system.