Irish-medium early years education provides a unique and vibrant educational experience. Many across the Chamber will be aware of the challenges that come with immersive education, but, with the right interventions, we can get it the support that it needs so that it can continue to flourish, giving young people the very best start in life.

I recently had the opportunity to meet representatives of Irish-medium early years providers. Our discussions shed light on a number of key issues, which I wish to bring to the attention of the Department of Education. Those issues need urgent action if we are serious about ensuring the success and sustainability of Irish-medium education at that key, foundational level.

Children who wish their education journeys to be through the medium of Irish must be given proper support to ensure that they are as prepared as other children are to enter rang a haon

[Translation: primary 1.]

That means investing in more Irish language child psychologists and speech and language therapists, and developing a workforce and development training plan. We need to see a more proactive approach to Irish-medium education from the Department. There should be an obligation for language-appropriate resources to be generated and supplied in-house, and for proper engagement with and support for families.

Irish-medium education should not be treated as an afterthought or secondary option; it is an integral part of our education system that deserves the same commitment and investment as other parts of that system. In line with that, there must be structured, ongoing engagement between the Department, Irish-medium early years providers and the families of children who choose that educational pathway. Parents need to feel confident that their children will receive a well-rounded education that meets all their developmental needs.

They should have access to clear, accessible information and support from the very early years.

I remain committed to working with colleagues from across the Chamber to address the challenges facing Irish-medium education. I will continue to advocate for the support, resources and interventions that our young learners deserve. By investing in those children now, we invest in the future of our language, our culture and our society.