SOUTH Down MLA Chris Hazzard has welcomed a commitment from Education Minister John O’Dowd that the growth in parental demand for Irish Medium Education in east Down will be supported by the Education authorities.
Mr Hazzard said: “I had written to the Minister to seek assurances that the continued growth of the Irish Medium Education would be actively supported and encouraged by the Department, including the upgrading of transport provision to meet the rising demand that we are currently witnessing.
“I am delighted that the Minister has responded positively and confirmed that should demand for transport to Coláiste Feirste in Belfast increase from September 2014, the SEELB will provide a suitable vehicle to accommodate the growing demand.”
Local Downpatrick Cllr Eamonn McConvey has also welcomed the news saying: “This is great news for the local Irish language community in Lecale that have been championing the educational value of emersion Irish Medium Education for some years now and going to huge lengths to support their children’s learning.
“I believe this news represents a key point in the ongoing development of Irish Medium Education in east Down, and over the next few years it will no doubt help sustain and develop real parental choice for their children to receive a brilliant education through the medium of Irish.”
