Budget 2008 Pays Lipservice to Adult Learning
7 Dec 2007 11:03 AM
Speaking on behalf of the membership of AONTAS which now includes over 600 individuals and organisations active in community and adult education, Ms Brady responded with disappointment to Budget 2008. 'We acknowledge that the budget reflects a changing economic context in Ireland', said Ms Brady following the Minsters briefing. 'However, investment in adult education and lifelong learning opportunities is a cornerstone of a healthy economy and an inclusive society. We fail to see any evidence of the government's commitment to developing a culture of lifelong learning in Ireland in this budget.'
Budget 2008 promises an extra 500 places for the Back to Education Initiative, and extra 500 places for adult literacy. 'This falls extremely short of the government commitment in 'Towards 2016' to expand places on the Back to Education Initiative by 2,000 by the year 2009' commented Ms Brady.
'The Back to Education Initiative and Adult Guidance Initiative were introduced to support the needs of adult learners, particularly those experiencing disadvantage. These initiatives are already under resourced' she continued. 'The government has missed an opportunity to make further education more accessible to adults experiencing disadvantage, as well as those in low skilled or low paid employment. AONTAS will continue to closely monitor future developments in the sector along with our educational partners,' she concluded.
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