Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Sinn Fein)

We refer to gaelscoileanna separately because they face different challenges. That is why, historically, the pupil-teacher ratio at these schools has been different. Gaelscoileanna teach a language which often is not the native language spoken by individual pupils. I am sure the Minister will agree that the gaelscoileanna movement has been one of the most successful mechanisms utilised in the effort to keep the Irish language alive and to develop it. Unfortunately, the previous Government put a stop on recognition of new gaelscoileanna. If it means business with regard to the Irish language - and I hope it does - will the new Government remove this?

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