Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am always inspired by Deputy Durkan's contributions and I am indeed inspired by that suggestion. There is a real issue here. Some 62% of adults aged over 65 in Ireland have completed primary or secondary education. There is absolutely no reason in the wide earthly world why third level education cannot be open to them at a later stage of life, an opportunity that may not have been afforded to them in the way it is afforded to the current younger generation. The SOLAS skills to advance programme offers free upskilling support to people in key areas such as digital skills, remote working, healthcare and smart driving. My Department is absolutely committed to making sure that education is for everyone no matter your age, your gender, the part of the country you live in or what you did earlier in life. As a former and recovering Minister for Health, I also know that the link between health and education is real. The link between access to education, skills, knowledge and learning and a person's well-being and mental and physical health is very potent. I will reflect on the suggestions of Deputies Durkan and Bruton and revert to them.

See this speech in context