Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 53: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he proposes to take to improve the quality and effectiveness of the teaching of Irish at second level as per the commitment in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19175/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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At post primary level An tSeirbhís Tacaíochta Dara Leibhéal don Ghaeilge is a full time team dedicated to providing support to teachers of Irish. In the last school year the team provided over 5,000 training places for second level teachers of Irish. There are also a number of local and summer courses provided through the education centre network which are aimed at upskilling Irish teachers as well as a range of online resources. These supports will continue in 2011/2012.

The 20 year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 contains a number of actions relating to improving the quality of Irish teaching. Amongst these are initiatives at both pre service and in service level. A working group has recently been established, under the auspices of the Department of Community, Equality and the Gaeltacht, to scope out and agree the steps to be taken in the implementation of the strategy. This Government is committed to supporting the overall thrust of 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 and will deliver on the achievable goals and targets proposed.