Jan O'Sullivan
Question:168 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will establish the National Adult Learning Council on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10284/04]
View answerWednesday, 31 March 2004
Questions (168)
Written answers
The National Adult Learning Council was established in March 2002 on an ad hoc basis pending the making of an order under section 54 of the Education Act 1998 to establish it as a statutory body. The role and functions of the council were outlined in the White Paper on Adult Education, Learning for Life.
Since the establishment of the ad-hoc council, concerns have emerged that its functions are too wide-ranging and not sufficiently focused. Additionally, a number of developments have occurred which will impact on the work of the council. Accordingly, my Department has undertaken a strategic review of the role and functions of the council to address these concerns. A decision with regard to the statutory functions of the National Adult Learning Council will be made in the light of the recommendations of the review.