Students in two schools in Monaghan will now have the ability to take up Lithuanian language classes.
The Department of Education has ambitious plans to cultivate the uptake of mother-tongue languages, and Inver College and Beech Hill college is now offering Lithuanian classes as part of the initiative.
Karen Ruddock, Director of Post-Primary Languages Ireland, said schemes such as these "give a message of approval and respect and gives a positive message to students about their language and culture".
She commended the work the Inver College and Beech Hill College, and hailed these schools as shining examples.
Siobhan Sheerin, Deputy Principal as Beech Hill College, spoke to The Wider View about the school's Lithuanian course and their decision to hire a qualified Lithuanian language teacher:
Diarmuid also spoke to Christina, who teaches Lithuanian in the school:
Carlos, a sixth year, is one is Christina's students. He said that the school's efforts towards the Lithuanian language and culture means a lot to him, and he began by explaining the classes he is currently undertaking:
