Labour leader Ivana Bacik has proposed a post-general election “platform” for left-leaning parties to strengthen their position in potential government talks. At the party’s education policy launch in Dublin, Bacik highlighted the need for collaboration but did not confirm party agreements, stating it will be post-election.
Emphasizing the goal of increasing Labour TD numbers in the upcoming election, Bacik mentioned running 30 candidates. When asked about potential coalitions, she remarked that it’s not about propping anyone up and stated readiness for the election whenever it’s called.
The education policy launch focused on eliminating voluntary contributions in schools and addressing a funding gap of €45m through state support. MEP Aodhán Ó Riordáin stressed the importance of education in the election and called for fairer funding practices.
Key areas of the education policy include separating church and state in education, supporting disadvantaged students, ensuring free education, rights of children with additional needs, improving school facilities, and addressing staffing issues.
Bacik also proposed a teacher staffing taskforce to alleviate shortages and outlined plans for multi-denominational schools, meals for disadvantaged students, and improvements in school staffing policies.