A chara, - I missed the correspondence on this topic because I was on the Isle of Skye celebrating the opening of the marvellous new extension to the Gaidhlig-medium third-level college, Sabhal Mor Ostaig, by the Secretary of State, Donald Dewar, as part of the proposed University of the Highlands and Islands. Language matters are treated very innovatively indeed in Scotland.
A resolution, adopted unanimously at our agm on March 13th, states our uinteoiri Gaeilge policy on the issue of teachers who have trained outside the Republic. Basically, we feel that there should be a strong support system for incoming teachers to help them acquire the necessary Irish qualification in a reasonable time, so their pupils can gain full benefit from both their language classes and the more integrated primary curriculum to be introduced shortly.
This support system should include the following components:
1. Appropriate courses, accompanied by recognised qualifications that may go beyond the basic SCG (Scrudu Cailiochta Gaeilge), to be funded by the Department of Education.
2. Gaeltacht visits of the type provided by Gaeleagras for the Civil Service.
3. Flexible in-school arrangements with Departmental funding to allow practical support for incoming teachers and proper arrangements for their pupils.
4. No reduction in salary during the (reasonable) period when the language qualification is being acquired. - Is mise,
Helen O Murchu, Stiurthoir, Comhar na Muinteoiri Gaeilge, 7 Cearnog Mhuirfean, Baile Atha Cliath 2.