Language centre closure challenged

MOST of the 44 staff of language training centres for immigrants, due to close next month, are bringing two industrial relations cases against the company and the Department of Education.

It was announced six weeks ago that Integrate Ireland Language Training, a Trinity College campus company funded by the department, was to close with the loss of 42 jobs. It works with adult refugees teaching them English and helping them to integrate, and it previously offered training to primary and second-level teachers on language supports for newcomer students.

The service is due to end by mid-August when the department expects existing students will transfer to English language classes run by Vocational Education Committees in the areas where IILT had outreach centres, including Dublin, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Kilkenny, Westmeath and Waterford.