Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 July 2025
3345. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline whether English language lessons are available to every person seeking international protection; whether it is mandatory in any circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41646/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraBy way of background, the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) throughout the country offer free English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) to help learners improve their English language abilities in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The goal is to help them achieve functional language proficiency, fostering social cohesion and creating pathways to education, training, pre-vocational opportunities, and work.
Learners are assessed to determine their language levels before starting an ESOL course. Courses range from beginner to intermediate/independent to advanced levels. They are sometimes integrated with other subjects such as employment skills, computers or business studies. They can be unaccredited or accredited at levels 1 to 5 of the National Framework for Qualifications or through other systems such as Cambridge English Qualifications.
In response to your question, I can confirm that International Protection Applicants can access ESOL courses provided by ETBs. It is not mandatory that International Protection Applicants take part in ESOL courses.
