Exempting a pupil from the study of Irish will be considered only in those exceptional circumstances set out in Circular 0054/2022, issued to schools by the Department of Education.

The Circular emphasises that "it is in the interests of the pupil to continue to study Irish at least to 5th or 6th Class level before any decision is made to grant an exemption, so that they will have maximum opportunity to participate in the learning of Irish."

The decision to exempt a pupil from the study of Irish is an important decision that has implications for their future learning. The decision to grant an exemption from the study of Irish is made by the Principal, but it must be made following detailed discussion with the pupil’s family, the relevant teacher(s), and the pupil themselves. An application for an exemption from the study of Irish can only be considered if it falls within the parameters and criteria outlined by the Department of Education.