Carol Nolan (Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Guím gach rath ar Dr. Travers ina ról nua. I have a ceist on the literacy and numeracy strategy. We have seen the success of that strategy, but the focus has been on English and maths. It is a worry for Irish-speakers, like myself, and other teachers who are passionate about the Irish language. Irish needs to be held in the same esteem as other subjects, but we need to do this in a way that will not increase the workload on teachers.

Is there a way of evaluating whether the strategy has had any impact on the Irish language and on the standards? Teachers now have to spend more time teaching English and maths and it could result in Irish being marginalised. It is a valid concern. Is there a way we could put it on the same level as English and maths in our schools without increasing the workload on teachers, who are already doing an excellent job?