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Strategic Plan Sets Focus On Establishing New Schools

November 17, 2008

 

Friday, November 14th, 2008 – 1100 Hrs

 

STRATEGIC PLAN SETS FOCUS ON ESTABLISHING NEW SCHOOLS, SUPPORTING EXISTING ONES AND REACHING OUT TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

 

Gaelscoileanna Teoranta has today published its ‘Strategic Plan 2008-2011′.  The plan, supported by Foras na Gaeilge was launched at the organisation’s annual education conference and AGM in Bettystown County Meath.

 

The Strategic Plan provides a roadmap towards the planned establishment of more than 20 national and 10 secondary Irish medium schools by 2013.  It also sets out a range of measures to support the short and long term success of the existing 140 Irish language national schools and 39 post primary schools throughout the Republic of Ireland outside of the Gaeltacht areas. The third element of the plan proposes ways in which the existing schools can reach out to their broader local community in fostering Irish language and culture.

"The growth of Irish medium education is testament to the demand and support of dedicated individuals within communities," said Uachtarán Gaelscoileanna, Micheál Ó Broin.  "The plan published today sets out the objectives which the Gaelscoil community as a whole needs to meet in order to sustain and develop the enthusiasm which has been the bedrock of our schools."

 

"The education sector faces challenges as does every other part of society.  We are representing the future of those children who do not have a direct voice.  In so doing we must be clear about what we need to do the job, and how we can best support the education of present and future generations."

 

"We have set out our vision as being to establish and maintain a high standard of Irish medium schooling throughout the country as well as developing and strengthening the Irish speaking community and culture."

 

"This strategic plan outlines the steps we need to take to ensure this vision is brought into clear focus."

 

End

 

For further information or to arrange an interview with Micheál Ó Broin

 

Rob Hartnett

Director, Hartnett McClure PR on (086) 3851955