Learning a language is vital, ambassador tells students at IT
German Ambassador Deike Potzel has urged young people to learn languages especially post Brexit.
Speaking at the launch of IT Sligo’s German Language Network, Ambassador Deike Potzel said the German government was looking to create stronger relations with Ireland after Brexit and told students to learn German and other languages to secure careers.
“I visited a large multi-national tech company in Dublin and spoke with the management there. When I asked why there were so many Germans here, they said they couldn’t find enough fluent speakers in Ireland and it was easier to train people in technology than it is to teach them a language.”
The ambassador said learning a language can also improve experiences of other cultures when travelling.
The ambassador also re-iterated the importance of not returning to a hard border on the island of Ireland after Brexit.
“There cannot and must not be a hard border and we are pushing really hard to avoid a hard border. A ‘no deal’ Brexit would be a disaster, not only for Britain or Ireland but all over Europe. 85% has been agreed so their is hope but the crucial issue is the question of the border”.