Cut in modern language support [IrishTimes]
- Published: 12 December 2011
Sir, – We are dismayed to hear of the abrupt decision to abolish the Modern Languages in Primary Schools Initiative announced last Tuesday and to divert its funding to the literacy and numeracy programme.
While we appreciate the concern of the Department of Education and Skills with literacy and numeracy, we believe cutting the €2.5 million being used to teach a range of modern foreign languages in more than 500 primary schools nationwide will unnecessarily restrict opportunities for Irish children. Indeed, this cut will impact on children at the age when they are most receptive to language learning.
Research has shown that the learning of modern languages promotes literacy and enhances children’s reading readiness. Principals and teachers involved in the MLPSI have testified that the learning of a third language has not only increased learners’ appreciation of Irish, but has also led to improved performance across all subjects.
Full Story: www.irishtimes.com
