Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 279: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if provision can or will be made for funding for AONTAS (details supplied) for improved funding, structures and supports for adult learning service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9317/07]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

AONTAS is a voluntary national adult education body established in 1969. It represents the interests of individuals, and voluntary and statutory bodies, involved in promoting and developing adult education in Ireland. AONTAS receives most of its funding from my Department. It was first grant aided in 1976 and has received funding annually since. In 2006, funding for AONTAS totalled €860,000. In 2007, my Department has provided funding of €1,152,000 towards the adult education activities of AONTAS. The grant includes €472,000 for the general running costs of the organisation, including staff salaries, and €450,000 for the adult education activities of AONTAS. In addition to normal annual grants, a special grant of €230,000, has been provided this year, for expenditure on a quality framework for community education for women (€110,000) and research (€120,000). The Department has also provided funding for the Adult Learners' Festival, organised by AONTAS, held in January this year and has included funding for the next Adult Learner's Festival in this years funding provision notified recently to AONTAS. The Department is not directly involved in the employment of AONTAS staff. Staff numbers, remuneration and conditions of employment are determined by AONTAS. I will continue to provide funding to support the continuing development of the adult education sector as resources permit.