The Northern Ireland Assembly has passed the second stage of a Sinn Féin bill aimed at developing a workforce strategy for Irish medium education. West Belfast MLA Pat Sheehan introduced the legislation following an extensive consultation process.

Consultation responses came mainly from individuals in the sector, such as principals, teachers, classroom assistants, early years practitioners, special educational needs professionals, parents, and grandparents. Nearly all respondents agreed that the Department of Education must increase support for Irish medium education.

Respondents also backed requirements for the department to tackle workforce shortages and establish a formal process to evaluate its statutory duties. Sheehan stated that the bill sets out a plan based on evidence, targets, and accountability mechanisms.

He noted that Irish medium schools face recruitment challenges for teachers, special needs support, and early years staff despite sector growth. Sheehan added that some parties sought to block the bill's progress.