Access to education must be guaranteed – Ardagh

Published on: 28 January 2016


Fianna Fáil Press Office
Cllr Catherine Ardagh
Dublin South Central

28 January 2016

Access to education must be guaranteed – Ardagh

Fianna Fáil candidate for Dublin South Central Cllr Catherine Ardagh has called on the Minister for Education and the Government to guarantee broader access to education for all especially those in areas of social deprivation.

“Studies have shown that the higher the educational attainment the higher the income so it makes sense that all citizens of the state should have the same opportunities to educate themselves and in turn get good jobs. Educational attainment has a broad-ranging impact on many aspects of life, from personal development to civic engagement and economic well-being.

“However, there are vulnerable groups for whom education is not an option. We need to ensure every incentive and encouragement is given for students to complete secondary school and if possible to go on to Third Level Education.

“Fianna Fáil is committed to increasing the funding to Third Level colleges so that standards can be maintained particularly in the research and development areas. We are examining a new loan system for young people who do not have access to the student maintenance grant to access third level education.

“Reducing school failure, improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged pupils and ensuring fair and equitable access to third level for all pupils is a key priority in Fianna Fáil’s education policy agenda. It is not acceptable that patterns of low educational attainment exist alongside above-average unemployment, emigration, ill health and high levels of exclusion. Proper access pathways through education allow all people to progress,” added Cllr Ardagh.

-ENDS-

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