John Connolly

Support offered by Senator and initial meeting requested::Support for Pre-Budget Submission 2027

Highlighted that assistive technology is a fundamental human right under the UN CRPD ::Showcase the success of initiatives like DAT Central and DAT Works, which supports disabled job seekers and employers in leveraging technology for career entry and advancement.::Advocate for…

To brief Members on the human rights basis of publicly funds supporting parents' right to choose an education in keeping with their religious or philosophical beliefs.

To increase awareness and understanding among Oireachtas members of the importance and effectiveness of the HEAR and DARE schemes and to encourage continued political and policy support for initiatives that promote equitable access to higher education.

To secure political recognition of the strategic value of international students to Ireland and support for policies that strengthen Ireland's position as a leading destination for international education

Leasú ar an scéim chun gur féidir le an bpáiste freastal ar naíonra agus leas iomlán a bhaint as an scéim ECCE ag an am céanna, sé sin díolúine d'áiteanna roinnte faoin scéim ECCE a cheadú ar bhonn teanga

Funding challenges

For Budget 2027, we are calling for urgent investment to tackle overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages. For Government to make a commitment to provide 1,000 new teaching posts in 2026/2027. An end to oversized classes, and an end to substitute roles being covered by…

Summer programme which included timely payment for the work carried out and EPV days Secure a commitment from Government to guarantee 1,000 new teaching posts in primary schools in the upcoming Budget each year for the next four years.

Improve accessibility and use of the Irish language in Third Level Education

To highlight programmes offered by NLN that offer progression pathways to the wide range of apprenticeships::To highlight some of the systemic barriers that prevent people with disabilities from taking up apprenticeships and make recommendations to the Committee

Equality of access to apprenticeship opportunities, enhanced support for apprentices

Called for greater flexibility within the apprenticeship and wider skills system to enable faster adaptation to emerging sectors and changing labour market needs.

Called for the administrative transfer option within the apprenticeship system to be formalised and more actively promoted to enable SMEs to participate through shared training arrangements.

Recommended that a portion of the National Training Fund surplus be used to enhance the branding, promotion and accessibility of apprenticeships.