Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
514. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 248 of 24 March 2024, the status of the Gaeltacht education policy advisory committee; for an update on the work of the committee; the role being played by the committee in the development of the next policy on Gaeltacht education; the terms of reference of the committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12858/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Gaeltacht Education Policy Advisory Committee was established in March 2017 to support the phased implementation of the Policy on Gaeltacht Education. The committee, which is chaired by an official from my Department, comprises representatives from a wide range of stakeholder groups. Details of the membership along with discussion papers, the committee’s terms of reference, agendas and minutes of all meetings can be found on the gov.ie website (Gaeltacht Education Policy Advisory Committee).
Meetings of the advisory committee create a forum to:
• share valuable advice, views and feedback to support the implementation of the Policy and inform decision making;
• build partnerships and forge links with other agencies and groups;
• identify challenges and opportunities to support the effective implementation of the Policy;
• build confidence, momentum and enthusiasm for the implementation of the Policy and the Gaeltacht School Recognition Scheme; and
• provide guidance on future priorities.
The Advisory Committee meets regularly and its most recent meeting was in December 2023.
The Advisory Committee will continue to provide support and advice to my Department in the implementation of the Policy on Gaeltacht Education and will, in due course, be involved in the review of the existing policy and the development of the new policy.
