Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 138: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if reform of the Irish curriculum will include the introduction of a separate subject covering the literature and culture associated with the language; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5068/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, I am very committed to improving our young people's command of Irish, through both increased support and curricular reform. Last April, I launched a wide package of measures to promote Irish in primary schools. These include the employment of cuiditheoirí at primary level to provide a programme of supports and in-service training for primary teachers and the delivery of a course in teaching Drama trí Ghaeilge to primary teachers. Other measures included the funding of Summer courses for 10-14 year olds in their own area, with an emphasis on sport and games through Irish.

Proposals are also being developed for changes in how Irish is taught and examined at second level. I have made clear my intentions to focus on improving students' competence in the spoken language and making learning Irish more enjoyable. Other issues, such as the appropriate emphasis to be placed on literature and culture, are also being considered. I expect to be in a position to make an announcement on the matter shortly.