Irish teaching and university legislation
Éamon Ó Cuív asks about Irish-language policy, the possible removal of Irish as a Leaving Certificate requirement, and the timing and content of the Universities (Amendment) Bill. The Tánaiste says she will convey his views and provide information on the legislation, while expressing sympathy to Karen Buckley’s family.
The programme for Government included an undertaking to introduce steps to improve the quality and effectiveness of the teaching of Irish at second level and indicated that consideration would be given to whether or not Irish should be an optional subject to leaving certificate level. Has the Tánaiste convinced her colleagues in the Fine Gael Party to drop the latter proposal?
When is the universities (amendment) Bill, which is on the A list, due to be published? Will it include proposals to change the matriculation conditions for the NUI colleges?
Comment on this
Before responding to the Deputy's questions, I take this opportunity to convey our sympathy to the family and friends of Karen Buckley, particularly her parents and brothers. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Charles Flanagan, the Minister of State, Deputy Sean Sherlock, and our consulate office staff in Scotland are doing everything they can to assist the family at this very difficult time for them. What has unfolded in recent days is every parent's worst nightmare.
In regard to the Irish language, I will bring Deputy Ó Cuív's view to the attention of the Minister for Education and Skills. As the Deputy knows, a programme of reform is under way in regard to the junior cycle. The Taoiseach and the Government remain strongly committed to the Irish language.
I understand the universities (amendment) Bill will be published this session.