Dr. Pauric Travers:

The early indicators in the literacy and numeracy strategy seem to confirm what can be achieved if we have a focused, targeted strategy that identifies areas that need to be addressed. If it works on those areas, there is no reason it cannot work in respect of Irish or, indeed, other curriculum areas, if they are systematically addressed and if there is time on task in respect of the particular aspect Deputy Nolan wants to develop. The development of a similar strategy is a policy decision that would have to be taken. The evidence is that this kind of strategy does work if it is focused and informed. The ERC has done research in this area and is very open to continuing to do research on it. There are concerns about overall standards in Irish over a period of time. I am not that familiar with some of the more recent research in relation to Irish, but over a period of time there has been concern about the general standards. My anecdotal impression is that the good students are very good, but that there is an issue that needs to be addressed in terms of the bulk of students. I am talking about teacher education students. If that applies to them, then it will ultimately transfer to schools and outcomes for pupils.