Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 284: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will assist in a case (details supplied); and if she will respond to the issues raised. [9508/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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Progress is ongoing on the implementation of the recommendations of the Report of the Internationalisation of Irish Education Services, including the establishment of Education Ireland, a new body with responsibility for promoting the development of Ireland as a centre of excellence for international education. The Government is committed to establishing Education Ireland as soon as possible and preparations are now well advanced to establish the body in the coming months. Education Ireland will be established as a company limited by guarantee in the first instance. The association referred to by the Deputy is represented on the Board of the Advisory Council for English Language Schools (ACELS), which also includes representatives of my Department. ACELS will be incorporated into Education Ireland on its establishment and the ACELS Board will be kept fully informed of developments in this regard.

Draft legislation is also being prepared with the intention of establishing the body on a statutory basis. I intend publishing this draft legislation during 2008.

The Government is committed to establishing Education Ireland as soon as possible and preparations are now well advanced to establish the body in the coming months. Education Ireland will be established as a company limited by guarantee in the first instance.

The promotion and development of the English language sector will be a key responsibility for Education Ireland, working in collaboration with the other relevant statutory agencies and providers. Education Ireland will prepare, and submit to me, strategic plans for the development of international education services, including the English language sector. They will also have the critical responsibility of regulating and quality-assuring international education services, including the English language sector.