Ó An Roinn Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta
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Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD will today mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a series of meetings on how to improve access to third level education.
Minister Harris will meet the National Access Steering Committee and a number of students from Trinity College on how to remove barriers to education and the workforce.
Speaking today, Minister Harris said:
"My clear message is that higher education is for everyone and our mission as a department is to ensure no one is left behind.
"Whether you did not complete second level education or have suffered from poverty and disadvantage, higher education is for you and can be the key to equality. Whether you have challenges with literacy, numeracy or digital skills, higher education is for you and can unlock opportunities you and your family should not be missing.
"Whether you have a disability or special needs, higher education is for you and can very much be a natural part of your journey through life."
International Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the United Nations almost 30 years ago. It is aimed at promoting empowerment and helping to create equality for people with disabilities.
The €168m Return to Education funding made available by the department includes a €10m access support package for higher education students including those with disabilities.
Minister Harris added:
"We are working on a new National Access Plan for higher education . Consultations on the next National Access Plan will commence next year and we want to do our best to focus our attention in the right areas.
"I hope you will contribute to the debate on the shape of this new plan and getting this right for the next five years."
ENDS