Jan O’Sullivan: ‘Early years are crucial to tackle gap.’

Following a report by the Higher Education Authority showing a big gap in students from different backgrounds accessing third-level education, Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan said her main objective as minister is to open up higher education to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The HEA report found that sons and daughters of farmers go on to third level at a rate higher than other sectors, whereas there is a very low take up in disadvantaged urban areas.

The area where she hopes to make a difference is in education disadvantage.