Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 September 2025
513. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will consider basing Irish-language education on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52048/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to work towards the alignment of the school curricula at the different levels with the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR). The CEFR provides an internationally recognised framework for language learning.
In line with this commitment, the Department of Education and Youth plans to work towards aligning Irish language curricula, and associated teaching supports and assessment arrangements, with the CEFR to enhance spoken Irish in schools.
As part of a phased approach to the alignment of Irish language curricula with the CEFR, the National Council of Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) has commenced a process towards the alignment of Leaving Certificate Irish to the CEFR. This work is taking place as part of the ongoing Senior Cycle Redevelopment programme and the first meeting of the NCCA-convened Subject Development Group for Leaving Certificate Irish is being held this week.
It is also intended that the NCCA will advance work on achieving closer alignment of the Irish curriculum with the CEFR across the primary, junior cycle and senior cycle sectors.
