Grace O'Sullivan (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I have spoken to Conradh na Gaeilge about the amendment I am proposing in this area. Like Senator Gavan, I think children should have continuous progression from the naíonra to the Gaelscoil if their parents wish. I will explain why this is desirable. First, a child who has attended a naíonra could lose the language skills he or she acquired at preschool if he or she progresses to an English-medium primary school. Second, as there are partnerships between naíonraí and Gaelscoileanna in many instances - this is the case in Tramore - we can facilitate simple continuity for children by ensuring they get to stay in secure and familiar surroundings. This is also the easiest and most practical option for parents. The close co-operation and unification that exists between naíonraí and Gaelscoileanna enriches children and ensures there is effective crossover across learning and development and social and linguistic objectives.

Third, by having continuity between naíonraí and Gaelscoileanna we can help parents who do not have Irish but want to ensure their own children do, while also reducing the stress on those who might be concerned they could have to find another Gaelscoil in the area. It is likely that the local Gaelscoil and the next closest Gaelscoil will be very far apart. Parents from all walks of life should have an opportunity to choose to send their children to naíonraí, especially in the context of the early childhood care and education programme.

Fourth, it is not only good for the child to progress from the naíonra to the Gaelscoil, but it is good for other children in the Gaelscoil as well because it ensures the standard and quality of immersive Irish in the school increases.