Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 380: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether a large number of students abuse the exemption from learning Irish at school, in view of the fact that many with this exemption study other languages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13407/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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Exemptions from learning Irish are granted in accordance with the provisions of Circular M10/94.

The criteria provide that exemptions may be granted by school authorities for (a) students whose primary education up to 11 years of age was received in Northern Ireland or outside Ireland (b) students who were previously enrolled as recognised students in a primary school or post-primary school who are being re-enrolled after a period spent abroad, provided that at least 3 years have elapsed since the previous enrolment in the State and the student is at least 11 years of age on re-enrolment and (c) certain categories of students with special educational needs as set out in Circular M10/94 or (d) students from abroad, who have no understanding of English, when enrolled. The scheme devolves decision making to school authorities who are required to operate strictly within the clear criteria.

Exemptions under the category of learning disability require assessment by a qualified psychologist. Assessments are conducted by psychologists or medical specialists, where applicable. Principal teachers determine whether students are eligible for exemption on the basis of assessments reports provided by competent professionals. My Department has no plans to change these procedures.

The choice of subjects for post-primary students, including those for students with an exemption from the study of Irish, is a matter for the student and his or her parents in consultation with the school Principal in the context of the students overall educational needs and in accordance with policies and procedures obtaining in the school.

My Department is not aware of any abuse in relation to the granting of exemptions from Irish and if any such abuse comes to the attention of my Department, it will be pursued vigorously with the school authorities concerned.