Irish language standards
Senator Brennan seeks a major debate on declining standards of Irish in national schools and argues that the language requires urgent protection.
I join the tributes and expressions of goodwill that have been extended to Tom McGrath. I thank him for his contribution to the Oireachtas.
I support Senator Ó Clochartaigh's request for the Minister, Deputy Quinn, to come to the House for a major debate on the standard of Irish being taught in national schools throughout this country. Our national tongue is the only difference between Ireland and any other country in the world. Tá brón orm a rá go gceapaim go bhfuil an Ghaeilge ag fáil bháis. Níl an teanga agam mar a bhí sí agam nuair a bhí mé ag dul go dtí an scoil náisiúnta. Tá seisear clainne agam. Some of them can speak Latvian, Russian and English, but I am sorry to say they are struggling with our native tongue. We must investigate the methods of teaching Irish that are used in national schools throughout this country.
