The Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn, T.D. on the 6th of August launched a public consultation on the development of a National Strategy for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). 

The development of a National Strategy for ESD is one of the commitments in Our Sustainable Future – A Framework for Sustainable Development in Ireland which was published by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in 2012. 

Minister Quinn is inviting submissions from interested parties outlining their views and recommendations related to the area of ESD. Submissions are welcome from all interested parties, including education and training providers at all levels of the formal and non-formal education system, business and professional organisations, agencies and NGOs in the field of equality, development education and environmental protection, media, and social partners. The responses received from stakeholders will be considered as the  National Strategy on ESD is finalised. 

The closing date for submissions is Friday 27 September 2013 .

Further information on the consultation process, including the template for submissions and a background information paper, can be accessed here.