Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I am conscious of the commitment and enthusiasm of parents, teachers and support groups for the gaelscoileanna movement. However, that movement really caught hold at a time when we believed we had one of the best education systems in the world and when our English language schools were ranked fifth in terms of literacy and numeracy. We have slipped down drastically when it comes to that league table and this is a matter which must be addressed.

I have an open mind on recognition of An Foras Pátrúnachta and new gaelscoileanna. I am particularly conscious that, for reasons of educational politics at ground level rather than attitudes in Marlborough Street, Coláiste Chill Dara, which has five or six feeder schools at primary level, was denied official and proper recognition. Where a demand for a gaelscoil can be shown and proven and where there is a consistency of supply, then the equality of recognition at second level is something to which I am well disposed. I believe in pluralism within our education system and in providing choice, where possible, within the constraints relating to resources.

See this speech in context