Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to be very honest in agreeing with the Deputy that at no point would I suggest that any child, and in particular a child who might have an additional need, should not be availing of Irish. On the contrary, it is the view that if ultimately a decision is taken that they will not take the subject to exam level, they should still have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the experience of it and be part of the experience. I would absolutely want to ensure that that is the case. In the first instance, every child should have an opportunity to experience the language.

The Department has written to every school principal, reminding them of the relevant circulars and criteria that have been laid down under which an exemption may be granted. A level of auditing of schools regarding the granting of exemptions will also be carried out, informed by the data available to the Department. We want to do the best for every single child. We want to ensure that the Irish language continues to be grown and nurtured in our school system, and we want to do that in a fair and equitable way for all students.

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