Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2026
753. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth the position regarding any research carried out into the level of demand for Irish medium primary schools at county-by-county level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41576/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy department conducted the Primary School Survey in late 2025. The survey, which is the largest of its kind ever undertaken in Ireland, was school specific and aimed to assess parental demand and preferences for different types of primary school provision. Through the survey, my department has obtained clear information on the preferences of parents and guardians about the primary schools which their children currently attend, or will attend in coming years, on a number of important areas of primary school provision, including language of instruction (Irish or English).
The preliminary national findings of the survey indicated that approximately 87% of parents in English-medium schools support maintaining English as the primary language of instruction.
While this figure provides a national overview, it is important to note that it is the preferences within each individual school community that will determine future direction. Demand for change, or continuity, will vary from school to school.
Further information on the preliminary national findings in relation to the primary school survey, including a county breakdown of preferences concerning English as the primary language of instruction, can be found on the weblink below:
Minister for Education and Youth welcomes strong participation in the national Primary School Survey as parents and school communities have their say on the future of primary schools (www.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/press-releases/minister-for-education-and-youth-welcomes-strong-participation-in-the-national-primary-school-survey-as-parents-and-school-communities-have-their-say-on-the-future-of-primary-schools/).
At local school level, last week my department provided primary schools with their school-specific survey results, which include the preferences of the parents of their current pupils and the parents who intend to send their children to that school in relation to Irish medium education. These results will now help to support meaningful local engagement and informed decision-making at school level as to the future direction that works best for each individual school community.
The survey preferences on education through Irish will inform future school planning and consultation around opportunities to provide increased education provision through Irish.
