The current system for granting exemptions for studying Irish is souring relationships between principals and parents, according to the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD).
A record number, 60,946, of secondary school students received an exemption from studying Irish in the last school year.
Paul Crone, director of the NAPD, and John Sharpson, primary school teacher and TV presenter, join The Last Word to discuss.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word with Matt Cooper