Written question asked by Elfyn Llwyd (Plaid Cymru), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 March 1997. It was answered by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Wednesday, 19 March 1997 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: What factors preclude the curriculum studies and the education studies modules of the Irish-medium BEd course from being taught entirely through the medium of Irish; and what measures (a) St Mary's College, Belfast and (b) the Department of Education for Northern Ireland are taking to increase the amount of teaching through the medium of Irish.

Answer: Mr. Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what factors preclude the curriculum studies and the education studies modules of the Irish-medium BEd course from being taught entirely through the medium of Irish; and what measures (a) St. Mary's college, Belfast and (b) the Department of Education for Northern Ireland are taking to increase the amount of teaching through the medium of Irish. [19697] Mr. Ancram: Students are equipped to teach in both Irish and English medium schools with St. Mary's college building on the skills of its existing staff to increase the amount of teaching through the medium of Irish. The extent of such teaching is a matter for the college to determine within the resources available.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 19697; 292 c644W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Curriculum Languages Irish language Northern Ireland St Mary's University College