Time to transform Adult Learning
6 Feb 2008 04:51 PM
A Fine Gael motion to transform learning by Education Spokesperson Brian Hayes TD was today described as 'extremely progressive and encouraging' by AONTAS Director Berni Brady.
The motion marks the AONTAS annual Adult Learners' Festival by proposing a shift from 'training for employment' to 'training people in employment' and by introducing initiatives such as annual paid training leave, a voucher scheme to help workers participate in Higher education, and a review of the eligibility of the Back to Education Allowance. Recent reports suggest heavy job losses in both the construction and services sectors.
'We also support Deputy Hayes' proposals regarding childcare supports, dedicated funding for English language training, and a review of the National Adult Learning Council' continued Ms Brady. 'This Friday morning, February 8th the closing event for the Adult Learners' Festival features a panel discussion with the Education Spokespersons in Government and Opposition, and we look forward to getting a firm commitment from all involved to keep adult learning on the government agenda. Ireland' s experience of adult learning compares poorly to other European countries, with only 8% of the Irish workforce availing of training and education in comparison to 29% in the UK and even higher levels in the Scandinavian countries. Learning is a critical issue for the development of our economy.' Although the government is promising to compensate job loss by creating a number of new jobs, we need a serious commitment to providing training, education and opportunities to develop transferable skills.'
The discussion will be chaired by RTE broadcaster Rachael English and will be informed by key presentations from Siemens Ireland on their training and education programme, as well as a mature student from Maynooth University. Stephen Stewart, who recently returned to full time education having worked for many years in the construction industry will outline the particular financial constraints faced by adult learners in pursuing a qualification.
Over the past week, adult learning providers and practitioners around the country have been organising events and promoting adult learning. The festival also made a strong statement at the STAR awards ceremony for adult learning projects, which celebrated the achievements of over three hundred adult learners and education providers from around the country.
ENDS
For more information, contact
Niamh Farren 01 406 8220/ 087 911 0569
Note to Editor
1. The Adult Learners' Festival is organised for the second year by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation. For more information on the festival, visit www.adultlearnersfestival.com.
2. Current Education Spokespersons scheduled to speak at the event include, Paul Gogarty (Green Party), Brian Hayes (Fine Gael), Ruairi Quinn (Labour), Pearse Doherty (Sinn Féin) as well as the current Minister for Lifelong Learning, Sean Haughey.
