Education and Training Boards Ireland were joined by over 200 delegates at its Annual Congress that took place in Tralee 15 October to explore the relationship between the ETBs and the European Union. Delegates at the Annual Congress were addressed by Minister of State in the Department of Education Michael Moynihan TD, MEPs Billy Kelleher and Kathleen Funchion, journalist Carole Coleman and speakers from across the EU who discussed shared EU programmes, partnerships and principles across the Irish education, training and youthwork sector.
The role of ETBs
The key role of ETBs in delivering special and inclusive education was also highlighted at the conference. Addressing delegates, Minister Moynihan stated: “Special Education is a key area for this government, and the ETB sector has demonstrated leadership in the establishment, management and development of special schools and specialist classes. This commitment helps ensure that children and young people can access high-quality education in environments that meet their individual needs. I am immensely grateful for their collective contribution.”
Commenting on the EU theme of the Congress, Acting General Secretary of Education & Training Boards Ireland Dr James Eustace stated: “This conference explores the strong connections our sector has across with the EU: from our shared values of democracy, inclusion and community, to the many EU programmes that benefit our ETB learners across schools, further education and training, and youth services. I’m also particularly proud of the contribution of ETB learners to this year’s congress through debate, creative exploration and music.”
Panels and performances
The afternoon was facilitated by Radio Kerry broadcaster Brendan Fuller who also moderated a debate between students from Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Kerry ETB – Kerry Education and Training Board and Coláiste Íde agus Iosef Abbeyfeale Limerick and Clare ETB on the values of the EU and whether or not they were ETB values.
Delegates were treated to a performance from ‘Between Here And There‘ Kerry ETB Local Creative Youth Partnership Learners Shaun and Anne Fitzgerald, Siún O’Brien, Sinéad Buckley and Aoibhe O’Brien. The talented young adults explored what it means to be Irish and European.
