Citizens’ Assembly on Education

Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh

With the Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use completing its deliberations recently, it prompts two questions. First, how we can ensure that the very good work our citizens’ assemblies are producing are not just reports that are idly left on a shelf and that the recommendations are actually implemented in a meaningful way? Second, another citizens’ assembly promised in the programme for Government is one to look at the future of education, ensuring that the voices of young people and those being educated are central to that. I also mention the work that needs to be done on a comprehensive policy for the Irish language from pre-primary education to teacher education. When will that citizens’ assembly be convened and set about its work?

The Taoiseach

I think it is fair to say that many of recommendations from the various citizens’ assemblies have been introduced and have been realised, but it is not a requirement that the Government or the Oireachtas necessarily accept every recommendation. We need to consider them though and that is why the first step is always to refer the report to the relevant joint Oireachtas committee to tease it out in a bit more detail. A citizens’ assembly on education is the next one on the list to do. It is a programme for Government commitment. I anticipate it will be up and running in the first half of next year.