Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2025
39. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science with reference to the education and training boards where adult education classes were reduced in this academic year, his proposals to ensure that the issues that led to the withdrawal of such classes are resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13716/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to assure the Deputy that I fully understand the importance of adult education and its ability to empower individuals, enhance their learning and provide new opportunities. Ensuring access to education for adults is essential for personal development, career progression and community enrichment.
As the state agency responsible for the further education and training sector, SOLAS allocates funding to the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and other agencies to deliver Further Education and Training (FET) programmes. I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate, as Minister, I have no role in the operational day-to-day running of ETBs as the scheduling and programming of courses is a matter for individual ETBs, subject to their available budget and local needs.
My Department has significantly increased its investment in FET by nearly €250 million in the years from 2020 to 2025. In 2025, my Department has allocated €1.152 billion to SOLAS, excluding capital expenditure, for the delivery of FET programmes by the 16 ETBs and other agencies to deliver FET programmes at a local level. This is an increase from €1.055 billion in 2024.
It is the responsibility of each ETB to ensure that they align their activities and provision throughout the year within this funding envelope.
