Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Thursday, 26 September 2019

Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement

Business of Joint Committee
Integrated Education: Discussion

Photo of Niall Ó DonnghaileNiall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Ms McNamee is correct. That was not really the case. I understand what she is saying and this is an interesting discussion. I want to return to the point made by Ms Copeland. Much of what she said in her opening presentation rang true in respect of my own experience. I was educated upstairs in the Cultúrlann before it was refurbished into the beautiful facility that it is now. We were really up against it regarding our experience. That was also a great unifier. It was a great way to instil a positive ethos and unifying spirit within any school. I am keen to talk to Ms Copeland to get tips on establishing a similar body for those of us who have passed through Irish-medium education to enable us to become champions and advocates for that approach. Aside from everything else, it would be useful because we are in a climate where many young people going through that sector feel abused and vilified, given many of the public statements made in recent times. I appreciate the presentation today and what the witnesses are doing. There would be merit in us taking a look at what is happening in Lagan College, whenever that might be possible. Regarding Irish as an A level subject and Gaelic sports, which are available in Lagan College, is there similar availability across the sector or is it confined to certain areas? I am not trying to put anybody on the spot and it might not be practical.

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