Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 101: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in her Department in response to the 2006 inaugural report of the Irish Language Commissioner which called for a review of Irish language education in primary and post-primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19901/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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A range of actions that focus on improving students' competences in spoken and written Irish and on increasing the attractiveness of the language to all learners in our schools has been taken and plans are in place for further actions to take effect in the near future.

At primary level, a revised curriculum in Irish has been implemented in all schools since September 2003. A communicative, task-based approach to language learning is at the heart of this curriculum which places emphasis on enjoyment and on using the language in activities such as games, conversations and drama. Its implementation has been supported by an extensive programme of in-service training for all primary teachers.

For Leaving Certificate Irish, a revised literature course was introduced in September 2004 which will be examined for the first time in June of this year. This has been widely welcomed as it allows literature to be taught using modern communicative approaches that appeal to young people and it affords a high level of choice to students and teachers. For example, film is now an option for the first time. A comprehensive set of guidelines to support teachers in delivering the revised course has been issued.

Significant improvements are being made in regard to the provision of materials and resources for the teaching of Irish. An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta has been established to progress this area and to provide support services for schools. Funding has been provided to An Chomhairle to support this task.

I have asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, the statutory body which advises on curriculum, to make proposals to me as soon as possible on how the syllabuses in Irish at post-primary level should be reformed and, in particular, how greater emphasis can be placed on oral competence in the language. I am determined to ensure that Irish is taught in our schools in a way that is interesting and relevant and will promote a positive attitude to the language among our young people.

Recently, I announced my intention to appoint additional personnel to support the teaching of Irish in our schools. Progress has already been made on recruiting 30 cuiditheoirí to work with primary teachers and a national co-ordinator along with a team of regional development officers to support second level teachers. It is planned that these people will take up their appointments in the autumn.

I have arranged that part of the drama in-service training planned for primary teachers in the next academic year will be 'Dramaíocht trí Ghaeilge'. This will assist teachers enormously in making the learning of Irish fun for children.