For all the people arguing over the semantics whether it is more expensive or not, I’d ask this.
So what?
As a country we choose to spend more on some and less on others, this is just another thing.
Loads of rural schools have less pupils for example.
Some schools need to board pupils.
I don’t think it will be more expensive apart from some ancillary costs, and the higher achievement will lead to more tax being paid eventually.
The real question is does it provide value?
That depends on whether you think keeping indigenous languages functionally alive (eg not just academically) and unlocking the cultural benefits of them such as music and poetry are worth it.
From a purely personal observation, people I know who send their children to Gaelscoil tend to be from more creative families, often spending more time in nature and having children who accomplish in art and traditional music at an early age.
Those who are against it in my experience seem to more business/economy orientated and value material possessions/fashion/cars more than others, cultural activities tend to be more mainstream and kid’s music more brass/orchestra focused.
In other words, shockingly, not everyone has to choose the same way of life or have the same beliefs.
Before I get the exceptions pointed out I’m aware this is a generalisation and as a caveat it’s purely my own observation.
The point I’m trying to make though is that there is room in the country for both types of people, but do we really want to be part of a country where you would deny people the chance to educate their children using an indigenous language that they value and believe in just to save a few pounds?