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Education
I have a lifelong interest in the field of education having qualified and worked as a secondary school teacher.
Since my election as a TD I have been a particular champion for special education and innovation in our education system.
Expanding Access and Reducing Barriers
I have always believed that education is the cornerstone of a fair and thriving society. As part of this commitment, Fianna Fáil in government has led every major educational expansion in Ireland’s history, including the introduction of free secondary education and broadening access to third level education.
Since 2020, we have continued to build on this legacy with significant initiatives such as the Free Schoolbooks Scheme for primary and Junior Cycle students, benefiting almost 800,000 pupils. I have always been a strong advocate for these reforms, working to ensure that education remains a top priority, particularly for those most at risk of disadvantage. We’ve also extended the hot school meals initiative to nearly 2,000 new primary schools and slashed school transport fees, making education more accessible and affordable for all families.
Supporting Students and Schools
My vision for education includes creating limitless opportunities and fostering inclusion for all students. We’ve doubled the number of special classes and established 11 new special schools nationwide, backed by increased funding for special education. In addition, our historic investment of nearly €5 billion in school buildings since 2020 has supported the development of hundreds of schools across the country.
Pushing for these investments has been a priority of mine, ensuring that every student has access to a quality learning environment. We’ve also significantly expanded supports to combat educational disadvantage, with one in four students now receiving additional assistance, and we’ve increased access to free summer school camps, helping over 50,000 children with additional needs and educational disadvantages.
Driving Educational Reform and Innovation
We're not just expanding access to education but also leading the way in the reform and innovation of the system to better meet the needs of today’s students. We’ve introduced practical assessments in the Leaving Certificate, allowing students to earn up to 40% of their marks before exams, and launched new subjects such as Drama, Film and Theatre Studies, and Climate Action and Sustainability.
Our initiatives also include new anti-bullying procedures and a national database of bullying incidents in schools, tackling critical issues affecting student wellbeing.
I will continue to advocate for innovative approaches like the 'Keeping Childhood Smartphone Free' initiative, which encourages delaying smartphone use until children finish primary school. Through these actions, Fianna Fáil are dedicated to creating an education system that not only meets the highest standards but also prepares students for the future.
I along with my party colleagues are committed to continuing this progress and ensuring that education remains a central pillar of Ireland’s future, driving social and economic progress for all.