Education Context
Current legislative / statute analysis
The Department of Education has a strong record in achieving goals set out in legislation.
This record and the analysis below point to the same conclusion – Ireland can deliver the goal of providing Irish-medium education to the 1 in 4 who want it by passing legislation.
The current legislative basis for the Dept. is:
• the 1998 Education Act
• the 2004 Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act
• the 2013 Education and Training Boards Act
The Dept. translates this legislation into policies; strategies, objectives & goals; and action plans that it implements and reports on.
The Dept’s latest “Statement of Strategy 2019-2021”, as well as its most recent Annual Report (2019), highlight its current priorities as set out in legislation.
Irish-Medium Education is not mentioned at a high level, nor as a strategic goal or as a measurable action.
The current 5 Strategic Goals of the Department of Education
GOAL 1
We will shape a responsive education and training system that meets the needs and raises the aspirations of all learners
GOAL 2
We will shape a responsive education and training system that meets the needs and raises the aspirations of all learners
GOAL 3
We will equip education and training providers with the skills and support to provide a quality learning experience
GOAL 4
We will intensify the relationships between education and the wider community, society and the economy
GOAL 5
We will lead in the delivery of strategic direction and supportive systems in partnership with key stakeholders in education and training
Note
In the “Statement of Strategy” Irish medium education is referred to only in the context of Gaeltacht responsibilities.
All references to the “20 year Strategy for the Irish Language” are delegated to an action under “Working with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht”.
Conclusion
As no legislation associated with the provision and expansion of Irish Medium Education exists – it is not a Strategic Goal of the Department of Education and is relegated to a footnote under education in the Gaeltacht.
The EU consider the extent of reference in top-level educational documents as an indicator of a states’ commitment to the development and promotion of regional languages.
Eurydice Report – ‘Policy Documents’ Chapter (pages 13 – 19)