Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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956. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the means by which the role of community education will be recognised and resourced in future strategies for adult learning and further education and training, in line with the recommendations of an organisation's (details supplied) pre-budget submission 2026. [51134/25]

Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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I can assure the Deputy that the role of community education is a recognised and valued component in the Further Education and Training (FET) sector. Community education is crucial for individual growth, social cohesion, and democratic participation. It provides local, accessible learning opportunities, fosters skills development, and builds confidence, ultimately promoting greater community involvement.

Delivering a commitment set out in the FET Strategy 2020–2024, a national Community Education Framework was developed through cross-sectoral collaboration and launched in June 2024. To oversee its implementation, SOLAS has established a National Implementation Steering Group (ISG), bringing together key stakeholders across the sector including officials from my Department.

The ISG is responsible for guiding delivery of the 25 actions outlined in the Framework across four key areas: Learn, Provide, Coordinate, and Fund. Progress is ongoing, with a focus on priority actions and the development of delivery mechanisms. Sub-groups have been formed to support targeted areas, such as funding, collaboration, and digital strategy. Progress is well underway, with priority actions being advanced and delivery mechanisms developed. Dedicated sub-groups are supporting targeted areas such as funding, collaboration, and digital strategy. Notable work to date includes a sector-wide skills needs survey, planned professional development initiatives, and early rollout of tools like the Wider Benefits of Learning.

The ISG meets regularly, and I had the opportunity to meet with them in June to hear directly about their work and witness their strong commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes for learners.

Investment in community education has increased by some 52% from 2018 to 2024; from nearly €11 million in 2018 to nearly €17 million in 2024. Earlier this month, Minister Lawless and I were pleased to announce over €4.5 million from the Reach Fund, which will benefit more than 700 community education providers. This funding is crucial in enabling providers to support disadvantaged learners.

The Deputy may be interested to know that SOLAS is providing €1.6 million in funding to AONTAS in 2025 to support, amongst other things, the National FET Learner Forum. This Forum is a series of events taking place across Ireland, which facilitate adult learners to share their experiences of learning.

I believe the Deputy will agree that community education is not only a cornerstone of the FET system but also a powerful driver of inclusion, opportunity, and transformation. As Minister of State, I am placing a strong emphasis on Community Education. I will be working closely with my officials, with SOLAS, and with the ISG to ensure that this vital part of the FET system receives the attention and support it truly deserves.

Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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957. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will meet with representatives of a body (details supplied), to hear directly the concerns of providers and learners about the sustainability of community education. [51135/25]

Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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I can confirm to the Deputy that my officials are in the process of scheduling this meeting for November.