Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that sterling work is being done at Gaelcholáiste an Chláir in regard to the promotion of the Irish language. I am aware of the work being done by the staff, the atmosphere that is being cultivated in the aonad and the first-class provision for students. However, the Department must look at the numbers when it receives an application. I acknowledge that an application was received from Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board. We have committed to looking at it. We have highlighted that there are queries we wish to raise specifically in regard to the availability of 52 places. It is a significant availability. Only 22 pupils applied and only 16 accepted a place. I am not saying that is the singular reason we are currently looking into the matter. We have an absolute openness to examining the application and the response from the ETB to see how we can resolve the situation. We are approaching it in a solution-focused way. I acknowledge the importance of the Irish language and of the support we give it and are seen to give it.

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