Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. On foot of this question, I have specifically asked my Department to engage with me directly and with the HEA on this matter. I assure the Deputy that my Department is committed to the implementation of the Official Languages Act and the provision of Irish language services to its customers. The Official Languages (Amendment) Bill 2019 is of high importance to Ireland and the life of the language in this country. It will ensure that Irish speakers can interact with the Government and access public services through a high standard of Irish.

There is already a broad range of courses available in Irish in higher education institutions. Under the advanced Irish language strategic initiative, funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, there are eight courses available in five different institutions. There were a total of 73 students enrolled in these courses in 2019-20. Since 2015, 9,286 students have been enrolled in higher education courses on the Irish language or conducted through Irish. The number of students enrolled has increased by 19% since 2015.

In 2019-20, 127 courses were available with 1,799 students enrolled in courses on the Irish language or conducted through Irish, though the Deputy has differentiated between those two types of course. These courses encompass a broad range of topics, many of which would provide graduates with the qualifications to meet the likely requirements of the Official Languages (Amendment) Bill 2019. As is the case in planning for meeting any specific skill or education needs in the workforce, the approach must be guided by evaluation and analysis of the relevant need. As set out, there is currently significant provision of Irish language training. In supporting the achievement of the objectives of the Official Languages Act, my Department is open to considering the outcome of any evidence-based review that examines how this supply aligns with current and future demand. I would be very happy to engage bilaterally with the Deputy on this matter and to arrange for both of us to meet with the HEA.

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