Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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201. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if an exemption for a leaving certificate exam subject for a person (details supplied) will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53115/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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While the study of Irish is compulsory in both primary and post-primary schools recognised by my Department, there are a limited number of specific circumstances whereby an exemption from this requirement may be granted.

The granting of exemptions is governed by Departmental circular M10/94 for post-primary schools. Under this circular the authority to grant exemptions within the terms of the circulars has been delegated to school management.

If a school is uncertain as to whether a pupil's circumstances fall within the criteria of the relevant circular or where a school's decision to refuse an application for an exemption is queried, it is open to either the school or the parent/guardian to seek advice from my Department as to the application of the criteria for an exemption to a particular case. Officials from my Department will contact the Deputy with the details of how a request for advice in respect of the Irish exemption circulars may be processed.