Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
927. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to give detailed consideration to a document produced by a national organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37796/25]
View answerI welcome the publication of AONTAS’ pre-budget 2026 submission. AONTAS plays a crucial role in promoting and supporting adult and community education across the country and are a valued stakeholder for my Department and SOLAS. The Deputy may be interested to know that SOLAS is providing €1.6 million in funding to AONTAS in 2025 to support, amongst other things, the National FET Learner Forum. This Forum is a series of events taking place across Ireland, which facilitate adult learners to share their experiences of learning.
Ahead of Budget 2026, I will publish an options paper, which will identify costs and potential impacts of various policy options aimed at reducing the cost of higher education. This paper will inform decision-making ahead of Budget 2026.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
As the Deputy will appreciate, decisions on budget allocations will be made in the context of Government decision-making on the fiscal and expenditure framework for 2026, consistent with the budgetary and Estimates process to be agreed by Government in the coming weeks.
