The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has announced the extension of the Language Assistants Scheme for the 2025/26 school year, along with a 10% pay increase for language assistants. The overall package amounts to €1.964 million, reflecting the government’s continued commitment to supporting Irish language education.
Established in 1992, the scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by Muintearas in Donegal and the Western Region, Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne in the Southern Region, and Glór na nGael in Gaeltacht Service Towns and Irish-Language Networks. It plays a vital role in strengthening the Irish language within the education system.
Currently, the scheme operates in 102 primary schools, 29 post-primary schools, and one special school across Gaeltacht areas, as well as in 11 primary schools and 5 post-primary schools situated in Gaeltacht Service Towns and Irish-Language Networks with active language plans.
In response to community demand and to further support the language planning process, the scheme will be expanded to two additional Gaeltacht Service Towns—Cork City and Donegal Town. With this extension, 13 more schools will join, bringing the total number of participating schools to 161.
Alongside this expansion, language assistants will see their hourly pay rise from €23.20 to €25.52 at the beginning of the new school year. This adjustment acknowledges their important role in sustaining and promoting the Irish language among students.
Minister Calleary praised the dedication of both the scheme managers and the language assistants, highlighting their contribution to enriching young people’s Irish language skills. He emphasized that the extension not only provides recognition for their work but also allows his Department time to consult with stakeholders and plan for the further development of the scheme in future years.
