Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 45: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to the National Adult Learning Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25799/06]

Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she has made a decision with regard to re-activating the National Adult Learning Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25908/06]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 105: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if the strategic review of the role and functions of the National Adult Learning Council has been completed; and if she plans to re-establish the Council. [25808/06]

Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 45, 89 and 105 together.

The National Adult Learning Council was formed in March 2002 on an ad hoc basis with the intention that it would be established as a statutory body under Section 54 of the Education Act 1998. Following the formation of the ad-hoc Council, concerns emerged that the functions envisaged for the Council were too wide-ranging and were not sufficiently focused. Additionally, a number of developments had occurred which would impact on the work of the Council, including the establishment of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland and the Further and Higher Education and Training Awards Councils.

My Department undertook a strategic review of the role and functions of the Council to address these concerns. The results of this review are being considered. A decision about future provision and direction in relation to NALC will be based on how best to provide in the most cost-effective manner for the learning needs of young people who leave school early or who may not wish to progress directly into employment or higher education and of adults seeking second chance education in the adult, further and vocational education sector. It will also be necessary in that context to take account of existing provision and structures.