SDLP Irish Language Spokesperson Patsy McGlone MLA has welcomed £100,000 in funding to save the Scoil Spreagtha scheme.
The scheme, run by Irish language group Gael Linn, supports Irish language lessons in schools across the North.
The funding will allow the scheme to continue for another year, followed by an evaluation.
Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone said, “The Scoil Spreagtha scheme has given thousands of young people the chance to learn Irish in schools across the North. There was huge disappointment earlier this year when it looked set to end due to a lack of funding, depriving pupils of the chance to develop their Irish and all the skills that come with it.
“I worked with Gael Linn to explore every opportunity to save this scheme and made direct representations to Education Minister Paul Givan on their behalf. I joined them in a meeting with the Minister earlier this year and am glad that he listened to the positive experiences of schools and pupils and has now confirmed that funding will be in place for another year.
“This decision is a real credit to everyone at Gael Linn for their dedication to our young people and the Irish language. I’ll continue working to ensure funding is secured in future years so that every pupil who wants to learn Irish has that opportunity.”
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