Description

The book tracks how FET developed into complex institutional arrangements, shaped by the socio-political impulses and economic aspirations of the emergent state from protectionist policies to outward looking policies in the later 1960s that led to an expanded vision of education’s role, especially following membership of the European Union (EU). It traces how FET manages the tensions between social inclusion commitments and a labour-market driven orientation that became increasing apparent in following decades, arguing that FET should retain its commitment and vision to personal empowerment, community building and social development, which should always be at the heart of its educational vision.

Luke Murtagh was an Irish educator who made a lifelong contribution to the broad field of education and lifelong learning. Working in many different roles such as schoolteacher, principal, chief executive, board member and academic researcher he has made a lasting contribution to his field of practice. His commitment to fostering the education of adults at local and national levels particularly came to the fore during his tenure as Chief Executive North Tipperary Vocational Education Committee for over 27 years and his work in establishing Tipperary Rural and Business Development Institute. In later life he pursued his doctoral studies at the Department of Adult and Community Education at Maynooth University where he also contributed to various teaching programmes. His knowledge and understanding of the broad field of adult learning led to his serving for a considerable period on the Editorial Board of the Adult Learner Journal published by AONTAS, the National Adult Learning Organisation in Ireland.

Rob Mark is an Irish researcher working in the field of lifelong learning. Based in Belfast and Dublin, he worked alongside Luke Murtagh in the preparation of this publication.