Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh (Kildare South, Sinn Fein)
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1142. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 2090 of 4 November 2025, the timeline for the establishment of the sectoral working group mentioned; the way in which he plans to measure demand for Irish tertiary education; and if he intends to formulate a rights-based strategic policy on Irish at third level following the programme of work undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61598/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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My department recognises the importance of promoting and expanding the teaching and use of Irish at third level.

I have instructed my officials to undertake a programme of work aligned with the objectives of the National Plan for Irish Language Public Services. This includes working with colleagues in relevant Government departments to establish a working group with representatives from the tertiary education sector. Officials from my department are in the process of setting up this group and are having ongoing engagements with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and other relevant stakeholders. Terms of Reference are being developed in consultation with partners and invitations to join the group will issue once these are agreed.

On measuring demand for Irish at tertiary level, as referenced in a previous reply, the programme of work includes undertaking research into existing and future demand. The parameters of this research will be determined by my department and the HEA.

Any further policy interventions from my Department will be based upon the outcomes of this programme of work. Any interventions taken will have due regard to language rights as outlined in the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021. Furthermore, my Department will have due regard to the Irish language in the forthcoming national tertiary strategy and will continue to engage collaboratively with the Department of Education and Youth, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and other relevant partners on commitments relating to the Irish language.

The Government is committed to working on a cross-Departmental basis to strengthen Irish-medium education across all levels, from early years to tertiary level, ensuring a joined-up and sustainable approach to promoting the Irish language.