Committee Membership
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Chairperson: Michael Murphy
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Vice Chairperson: Cecilia Munro
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National Executive Nominee: Paul McCarthy
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ACCS / JMB Representative: Catherine O’Sullivan
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Members: David McDonnell, David Forde, Sorcha Nicdhonnacha, Alison Ward, Noreen O’Reilly, Ray Tedders, Jean Fitzgerald, Deirdre Hanamy, Geraldine Gibbions, Patricia O Brien Brennan
Committee Activity
The FETCI Committee met regularly throughout the year, continuing its mission to advocate for Further Education and Training (FET) leaders and to contribute meaningfully to national policy and strategic development. The committee engaged in several consultations and meetings with relevant stakeholders in the Further Education Space, supported professional development, and facilitated dialogue across the sector.
Key Events in 2025
FETCI Annual Conference – “FET: The First Learner Choice”
Held in early 2025, this landmark conference drew record attendance and reaffirmed FET’s growing status as a first-choice educational pathway. The conference opened with a tribute to the late Dr. Fiona Maloney, whose legacy continues to inspire the sector.
Highlights included:
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Opening Address by Rachel O’Connor, NAPD Deputy Director, emphasizing FET’s transformative power and its central role in Ireland’s education system.
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Ministerial Address by Minister James Lawless, who pledged continued investment and support for FET, referencing the €1 billion funding commitment and the upcoming staffing structure report.
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Keynote by Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, outlining the new FET Strategy focused on integration, equity, and innovation.
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Panel Discussions chaired by Cecilia Munro and Dr. Jean Fitzgerald, featuring voices from learners, educators, and industry leaders.
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Learner Stories from Podge, Robyn, Angela, and Sean McGreal, showcasing the diversity and impact of FET pathways.
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European Perspective by Professor Joachim Calleja, highlighting VET as a first-choice option across Europe.
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Visionary Framework for seamless FET to HE transitions, challenging traditional CAO structures and promoting learner-centred progression.
Strategic Themes of our Work
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Learner Voice: We recognise that learner voice is now a driving force in shaping policy and practice and we include learner in all our national events.
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Integration & Transition: The sector is moving toward seamless pathways between FET and HE, with tertiary programmes and CAO integration gaining traction.
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Equity & Inclusion: FET continues to serve diverse learners, with a focus on accessibility, social mobility, and community engagement.
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Employer Engagement: Stronger links with industry are shaping curriculum and enhancing work-based learning.
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Innovation & Agility: FET is responding to societal challenges—climate, technology, housing—with flexible, future-ready education models.
Acknowledgements
FETCI extends sincere thanks to SOLAS, ETBI, the Department of Further and Higher Education for all their support in our work.