Keira Keogh (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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924. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to provide an update on discussions regarding the alignment of the Youthreach calendar year with the second level calendar year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55414/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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By way of background for the Deputy, Youthreach is a national programme designed to provide second-chance education for young people aged 16 to 20 who have left school early or are at risk of not completing their formal education. It offers a flexible, supportive, and alternative learning environment distinct from mainstream post-primary schools, with the aim of equipping participants with the qualifications and skills necessary for future employment or further education.

In 2023, the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) requested that the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) recommence conciliation on a previously submitted claim seeking alignment of the Youthreach calendar with that of the post-primary school calendar.

Officials from my Department have been actively engaging with the TUI on this matter and agreed on a structured approach to consider the proposal. This process has involved discussions with, and receipt of position papers from, the National Youthreach Co-ordinator, Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI), SOLAS, ETB representatives, the Department of Education Inspectorate, the TUI, the National Association of Youthreach Coordinators (NAYC), and IACTO. Officials also reviewed all recent research related to Youthreach and several relevant datasets. A dedicated working group has advised on the approach. Officials have analysed all information and data gathered and I expect to be sent a paper for my consideration in the coming weeks.

Given the significance of the proposed changes to the delivery of this important national programme, I am sure the Deputy will agree that a thorough and evidence-informed process is essential.