We are a group of parents in Portlaoise campaigning for the establishment of a Gaelcholáiste in Portlaoise. We all have children attending Gaelscoil Phortlaoise and we are passionate about them continuing to learn through their national language. (Official language act 2003, Ráiteas 2006). Given the demographics and the desire of parents to have their children educated as Gaeilge, a Gaelcholáiste is now a necessity more than a want for the Midlands. By establishing a Gaelcholáiste in Portlaoise, the diversity of education provision is enhanced.