This week, we are launching our manifesto “Transforming Adult and Community Education” in Leinster House.
This manifesto is our call to action for Government to make transformative and progressive policy changes that will ensure those furthest behind in our education system are prioritised first. This is essential if we are to have equality in Ireland.
It is likely there will be a General Election in Ireland soon. With our manifesto, we are seeking to influence the new Programme for Government.
We are asking politicians to focus on issues that have a massive impact on adult and community education – like childcare, public transport, social welfare and disability payments, student counselling, and pay and conditions for tutors and staff.
Speaking about the manifesto, our CEO Dearbháil said: “An investment in adult and community education is an investment in the health and future of our country. We want to see real change within the lifetime of the new Government.
New policies and infrastructure won’t solve these problems without the right foundations—people need homes, health, food, financial security, and stability. We must stop judging educational success by accredited outcomes and start focusing on the equality of conditions in people’s lives.”
This Wednesday – the day after the announcement of Budget 2025 – we are bringing adult learners and education providers to the heart of Government. There will be a panel discussion and meet-and-greet with TDs, Senators, and political representatives, and learners and providers will share their experiences and recommendations for change directly with policymakers.
This is an invitation-only event, but we will be sharing updates on our social media platforms.
You can read our manifesto here.
Writing by Dr Kate Smyth, Strategic Comms Officer