Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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118. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a child (details supplied) is not exempt from the study of Gaeilge for second level in view the child's severe language difficulties which also prevent them studying foreign languages. [26991/18]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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Exemptions from the study of Irish are granted in accordance with the provisions of Departmental Circular 12/96 for primary schools and Circular M10/94 for post-primary schools. The criteria provides that exemptions may be granted by school authorities for certain categories of students with special educational needs as set out in these Circulars.

If a school is uncertain as to whether a pupil's circumstances fall within the criteria of the relevant circular or where exceptional and significant circumstances arise it is open to either the school or parent to seek advice from my Department as to the application of the criteria for an exemption to a particular case.

In respect of the case referred to by the Deputy the position is that the school have recently written to my Department seeking advice in relation to this application. Following full consideration of all documentation submitted my Department will issue its advice to the school and parents.