The Government has committed a serious breach of trust by failing to earmark funding for further education, the Teachers Union of Ireland claimed today.
With the Budget due next week, the TUI warned it would exhaust every avenue to guarantee extra cash was set aside.
Paddy Healy, TUI president, called on the Department of Education to implement a report it sanctioned for further education.
"The failure to set aside funds for Further Education structures in the Budget estimates is a serious breach of trust by the Department of Education and Science and Department of Finance," Mr Healy said.
"It is also immoral in these days of unprecedented Budget surpluses.
"The minister has talked extensively about her commitment to tackling disadvantage, yet the sentiments ring hollow when the area which provides the most second chance education opportunities to those who would otherwise be let down by the system continues to be overlooked."
The TUI insisted recommendations contained in the McIver Report must be implemented which would put further education on a par with institutes, universities and colleges.
"Ireland remains unique among its European neighbours in not having a distinct FE sector," Mr Healy said.
"FE students should be given parity with their Institute of Technology and University peers with the provision of libraries, study areas, canteens, social areas and student unions with sabbatical officers prioritised."
Mr Healy said TUI officials would monitor next Wednesday's Budget speech and a special executive committee meeting will take place later in the week to assess the situation.
PA