Written answers

Wednesday, 30 January 2008

Department of Education and Science

Irish Language Education

8:00 pm

Photo of Brian HayesBrian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 901: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding Circular 0044/2007, in connection with those Gaelscoileanna who are not party to the judicial review proceedings currently under way; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36115/07]

Photo of Mary HanafinMary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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Circular 0044/2007 requires that Irish medium schools should provide for a minimum provision in English of 2.5 hours per week for infant classes, no later than the start of the second term in Junior infants. I fully discussed this issue with Irish language organisations and the National Parent's Council prior to issue of the Circular to schools.

The right of parents and children to choose education through the medium of Irish is fully respected, but this does not obviate the need for schools to implement all aspects of the national curriculum. The achievement of the curriculum objectives in every curriculum area at each of the four levels of primary schooling is an over-riding requirement of all schools.

As the Deputy is aware the issue of Circular 0044/2007 is the subject of a legal challenge in the High Court, scheduled for 11 February 2008. My Department is prohibited from taking steps pursuant to implementation of the Circular until the judicial review has been heard and a final verdict has been given.

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