HC Deb 09 July 1997 vol 297 c513W
Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what new proposals he has to increase Irish language. [5906]

Mr. Worthington

Steps have been taken to ensure an adequate supply of suitably trained teachers of Irish Medium schools. St. Mary's College of Education now offers a four-year Bed (Primary) course for those wishing to teach in the Irish Medium Sector. Pending the output of teachers from this new course my Department has approved five additional one-year Post Graduate Certificate in Education intake places each year.

Outside the irish medium sector, where Irish is compulsory, it is a matter for individual schools to decide whether to teach Irish, and I have no plans to change that.