My Department has considered a proposal made by Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (ETB) to provide Irish-medium education at second level through establishing an Aonad in an existing school in County Sligo. My Department has advised that the proposal needs to be re-examined by the ETB to address a number of issues that could assist in facilitating delivery of Irish-medium education more successfully and sustainably in the ETB's area of responsibility.
Officials from my Department have recently been in telephone contact with representatives of the school start-up group in County Sligo and have advised them that the appropriate course in this instance is to re-engage with the ETB concerning the re-examination of its proposal on the basis of the advice and clarification already provided by the Department. I understand that a meeting is being arranged with the ETB. My Department will be happy to examine a proposal when submitted.