Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 February 2006
334 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Question No. 1351 of 25 January 2006 the learning difficulties under which these exemptions from the study of Irish were awarded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7322/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraOf the total number of pupils at primary level who were granted exemptions from the study of Irish on the basis that they had assessed learning difficulties, 60% were granted exemption on the basis that they were pupils who function intellectually at average or above average level but have a specific learning disability of such a degree of severity that they fail to achieve expected levels of attainment in basic language skills in the mother tongue.
Some 20% were granted an exemption on the basis that they had been assessed as having a general learning disability due to serious intellectual impairment and are also failing to attain adequate levels in basic language skills in the mother tongue. Some 3% were granted an exemption on the basis that they had been assessed as having a general learning disability due to serious sensory impairment, and are also failing to attain adequate levels in basic language skills in the mother tongue.
In the school year 2004-2005 some 8,142 post-primary students were given an exemption from the study of Irish based on assessed learning difficulties. These figures are based on individual student returns made to my Department each year by post-primary schools. The returns do not provide a further breakdown of the assessed learning difficulties involved.
