I enjoy being part of a multicultural society and I have been delighted by grandchildren at primary schools sharing their excitement in knowing some French.

What particularly disturbs me is Barbara’s assertion that a review panel made this decision without consulting teachers, parents or school communities.

Surely this review panel would have spoken with those involved in the seven government schools mentioned that teach French.

Surely it would have had to justify its position. It must have given reasons.

Surely the powers that be would not just sweep away all that has gone into providing such a vibrant French language curriculum; all the training, time, dollars and experience that have been invested.

Will French be replaced by some other language or will the number of languages available simply be reduced?

If one established language is to be replaced by another that will demand more expenditure to establish it, then the reasons must be very good.

I look forward to the reasons behind this decision.

CHRIS COUGHLAN,

Bendigo