Education and Training Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 May 2013

Wednesday, 22 May 2013

Questions (105)

Tom Fleming

Question:

105. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on a petition (details supplied) and the rational submission contained in this petition especially in view of the fact that literacy and numeracy are in the Programme for Government and the request that this be given priority on the FET (Solas) Bill 2013 is very logical and practical; if he will revise the draft to ensure that these vital issues are included in the Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24686/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

I recognise that further education and training as it is currently delivered covers a broad spectrum that ranges from basic adult literacy and numeracy courses to courses that are certified at level 6 and above on the National Framework of Qualifications.

Section 9 of the Bill provides that SOLAS, once established, will prepare and submit, to the Minister, a strategy in respect of further education and training.

The issue of including a provision in the Bill for the development of a national adult literacy and numeracy strategy was raised at Dáil Committee Stage.

I have asked officials in the Department to give consideration to this matter in advance of Report Stage in the Dáil in coming weeks.