Sinéad Ryan's qualification was obtained outside of Ireland, meaning to complete her registration with the Teaching Council in Ireland she has to fulfil the Irish language requirement. Photograph: Brian ArthurSinéad Ryan has 15 years experience as a qualified primary schoolteacher working in England and Dubai, but if she wants to pursue teaching in Ireland, it could cost her up to almost €4,000. About eight years ago, she moved home to Limerick from Dubai and returned to teaching English and adult education teaching, but wished to teach primary level. Sinéad Ryan says the Irish teaching exams are 'geared towards just passing, it’s not actually geared towards creating people who will speak Irish for the rest of their life.' She explained that until she passes all four modules, her Teaching Council registration is considered to be conditional.

Source: The Irish Times January 13, 2026 10:32 UTC