Rehab Group

Lobbying Organisation Rehab Group

Date published 20 Sep, 2025

Relevant Matter Public policy or programme

Public Policy Area Education and Training

Period 1 May, 2025 to 31 Aug, 2025

Specific Details Meeting with Minister Marian Harkin to discuss work of and challenges facing National Learning Network

Intended results Support for the work of the National Learning Network (NLN), which provides personalised inclusive education programmes and supports across Rehabilitative Training (RT), Specialist Training Provision (STP) in the Further Education and Training (FET) sector and Inclusive Education Supports in several Higher Education organisations. A review of the funding model for Specialist Training Provsion (STP) so that funding for core costs is provided. The expansion and ring-fencing of Specialist Training Provision to support students with disabilities pursue courses leading to employment/further education, and reversal of decision by certain ETBs to cut/cap student places. Ensure a level of capital funding is in place for NLN Colleges that supports the development and upgrading of fit-for purpose, accessible and inclusive learning environments. Minister to open our new flagship college, NLN College East, in September.

Name of person primarily responsible for lobbying on this activity Rita Day

Did any Designated Public Official(DPO) or former Designated Public Official(DPO) carry out lobbying activities on your behalf in relation to this return? You must include yourself, and answer Yes, if you are a current DPO or a DPO at any time in the past. (What is a Designated Public Official?) Yes

Current or Former Designated Public Official(s)

Emer Costello (Former DPO) MEP (European Parliament)

Did you manage or direct a grassroots campaign? No

Was this lobbying done on behalf of a client? No

Lobbying activity

The following activities occurred for this specific Subject Matter Area.

Email (2-5)

Email requesting meeting with the minister and follow up emails.

Meeting (1)

Meeting with Minister in Leinster House where above issues were discussed and explored.

Designated public officials lobbied

The following DPOs were lobbied during this return period on this specific Subject Matter Area. These DPOs were involved in at least one of the Lobbying Activities listed above, but not necessarily all of them. As returns are specific to a Subject Matter Area the above Lobbying Activities may be associated with multiple returns.

Marian Harkin Minister of State (Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science)