By way of general information, the Programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland’s Future, includes a commitment to establish Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí where there is demand and support parents choosing Irish-medium education for their children
In respect of post primary schools, new post primary schools must have a student enrolment capacity of 600-1,000 students and must be co-educational. A lower threshold of 400 students may apply to gaelcholáistí, having regard to the alternative of establishing an Irish-medium unit (aonad) in an English-medium school.
The Policy for Irish-Medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht was launched in November 2025. The policy sets out my department's vision that high-quality Irish-medium education will be available to all, in inclusive and multicultural educational settings.
The Taskforce on Models of Provision for Irish-Medium Education, which was established under the Policy for Irish-Medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht, is providing a platform for collaboration between my department and key stakeholders to identify a pathway to increase the provision of Irish-medium education. A range of organisations and stakeholders whose input will be important in agreeing recommendations in this area have nominated members to the taskforce.
Parental preferences from the primary school survey have now been published and this provides a comprehensive evidence base to underpin decision-making on the level of demand for Irish medium provision. The findings of the primary school survey, particularly parents’ expressed preferences for Irish-medium education, will play a significant role in shaping any future decisions in this area with regards both primary and post-primary provision.
Finally, my department remains fully committed to supporting Irish-medium education, with over €500 million invested in the past six years to build and modernise facilities. The department will continue to support Irish-medium provision as part of NDP rollout during the 2026 to 2030 period.
Currently there are three Gaelscoileanna in Co.Offaly and pupils have the option to attend the Aonad in Colaiste Dhún Másc, Portlaoise, Co. Laois should they so wish. Gaelcholáiste Chill Dara in in Naas, Co Kildare could also be considered by pupils at one of the Gaelscoileanna. The number of pupils from Offaly attending Irish medium post primary schools outside of Offaly is 9.
