Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the reason the review of the function of the National Adult Learning Council is taking so long; if she will re-instate the council to co-ordinate adult and community education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5089/07]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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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 it were too wide-ranging and were not sufficiently focussed. Additionally, a number of developments had occurred which would impact on the work of the Council.

A strategic review of the role and functions of the Council was undertaken to address these concerns. The outcome of the review has been under consideration in my Department. I expect to be in a position soon to make a decision on the best way forward. My decision 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.