Ulster University language courses
Senator Barrett protests the closure of modern-language provision at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus, which he says will cost 1,250 student places and 120 jobs.
I echo the sentiments of Senators Ivana Bacik and others in their appreciation of former Senator Jimmy Harte and Mr. Paddy Harte. Mr. Paddy Harte and Mr. Glenn Barr did such work in promoting reconciliation on this island, long before it had entered the political mainstream. We will miss Jimmy Harte very much in this House.
I refer the closure of the School of Modern Languages at the Ulster University in Coleraine as an economy measure. It has resulted in the loss of 1,250 student places in languages in the north west of the country, as well as 120 posts. We need more language teaching in Ireland, North and South. There is an emphasis these days on teaching languages at an earlier age, perhaps introducing it in primary schools. The Minister for Education and Skills is a language graduate. Will she consider having a debate on this issue and the implication that a narrow utilitarian view of education could lead to losses? It is a wrong decision in Northern Ireland. That society needs more diversity, not less. It has implications, however, for the entire island of Ireland in trying to promote the smart economy and a broader minded society. Will the Leader ask if the Minister for Education and Skills will debate the implications of that closure for education in the entire country?
