29 May, 2006 - Bilateral Agreement with Germany for Bilingual Leaving Certificate

'Agreement will deepen the close and friendly relations between both countries' - Minister Hanafin
 
Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin, T.D., today signed an Agreement with the Federal Republic of Germany on the introduction of a bilingual Leaving Certificate in St. Kilian's German School in Dublin.   Minister Hanafin signed on behalf of the Government of Ireland while Ambassador Christian Pauls signed on behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany.

The bilingual Leaving Certificate will be provided in two subjects, German Language and Literature and History (Bilingual).  The Agreement will facilitate students in St. Kilian's to qualify for university entrance in both Ireland and in Germany and will contribute to the wider strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries.

"Ireland and Germany have a long history of friendly bilateral relations" said Minister Hanafin today.  "This agreement will deepen the close and friendly relations between our countries and provide the students of St. Kilian's with a Leaving Certificate in the European spirit, which allows them study at university level in both countries."

Highlighting the co-operation that exists between countries Minister Hanafin said "an agreement on cultural co-operation between our two countries was signed over 23 years ago.  That Agreement has enhanced co-operation in the fields of culture, science and education and there has been much activity, including the provision of post-graduate scholarships and a programme for language assistants."

Minister Hanafin wished St. Killian's German School every success as the new bilingual option is introduced at the school in September.

ENDS