HC Deb 23 May 1988 vol 134 cc30-1W
Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what qualification the Department of Education recognises as suitable for teaching Irish in primary schools;

(2) why the Ministry of Education ceased to recognise certificates of competence to teach Irish in primary schools issued by voluntary Irish language colleges in Northern Ireland; and if he will reconsider establishing an arrangement whereby voluntary Irish language colleges would issue certificates of competence to teach Irish and the Department would give them full recognition.

Dr. Mawhinney

Recognition as a qualified teacher in primary schools is dependent upon the successful completion of an approved course of teacher training. The award of recognition is not based on a single specific subject.

It is a matter for the individual school authorities when appointing teachers to take account of any relevant specialisms.

Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what in-service training opportunities are available to primary teachers with no Irish who wish to teach Irish.

Dr. Mawhinney

St. Mary's college is currently offering a part-time BEd in-service degree course with Celtic as a subject option. Proficiency in Irish, while desirable is not a prerequisite for entry to the course.

Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much has been spent on the support of Irish in the education system in Northern Ireland in each academic year from 1980 to 1987, inclusive.

Dr. Mawhinney

Details of the cost of supporting any subject in the curriculum, including Irish, are not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will produce a discussion document on the role of Irish in the school curriculum; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

[holding answer 16 May 1988]: I have no plans to produce such a document.