Published on
A genuine economic opportunity has arisen for Irish language educators – Mc Ginley
Dinny McGinley TD Minister of State with responsibility for the Gaeltacht today (Thursday 22
nd September, 2011) officially launched
Inter-changes: Irish Language Learning & Teaching in the US, Conference & Research Report in Keogh Naughton Notre Dame Centre, O’Connell House, 58 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Speaking at the launch of
Inter-changes: Irish Language Learning & Teaching in the US Research and Conference Report, commissioned by the Ireland–United States [Fulbright] Commission for Educational Exchange, Minister McGinley said
“A genuine economic opportunity has arisen for Irish language educators and publishers to create learning materials for Irish language learners and teachers in the US that incorporate a greater degree of contact with native or fluent speakers of Irish. This is a very timely report as the Irish Government prepares for October’s Global Diaspora Forum”The report highlights the dedication yet sense of isolation on the part of Irish language teachers in the US, something which could be addressed by the formation of a teachers’ association and sharing of resources. Information gathered will also be of benefit in the implementation of the
20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language. The report also identifies 87 academic and non-academic institutions teaching Irish.
“It is extremely heartening to see such a high level of interest in the US for learning theIrish language. However, almost two-thirds of Irish language tutors in the US consider current teaching resources as only ‘fair, poor or very poor.’ An opportunity exists to create enhanced materials whether textbooks, grammar and pronunciation guides, multi-media and web-based supports. Additionally, some form of teacher training or support would make teachers aware of the resources which already exist,” added Minister McGinley.
“
As Minister with responsibility for Gaeltacht Affairs I am conscious of the combined effort and work that has gone into the preparation of this report and I want to sincerely thank my officials at the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht , the US Government, the Commission and US institutions such as the University of Notre Dame, for their continued support and collaboration on the Irish language awards and activities” – Ní neart go cur le chéile” concluded Minister of State McGinley.
Críoch.E-Mail:
pressoffice@ahg.gov.ieWeb site:
www.ahg.gov.ie