Ireland's first full-time university course for people with an intellectual disability has been opened at Trinity College Dublin.
Minister for Education Mary Hanafin
Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin officially opened the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) today, which is running the course.
The NIID said it aims to identify through education and research the central issues affecting the lives of people with an intellectual disability and to ensure their full inclusion inside and outside the college.
Ms Hanafin said the NIID was a "truly pioneering initiative".
She said: "I am particularly struck by the emphasis placed on inclusive research, based on involving people with an intellectual disability and their families in identifying and conducting research on their own needs.
"I believe this will have a significant impact on many lives in Ireland and much further afield."
There are currently 20 mature students taking part in the full-time course, the Certificate in Contemporary Living. This course aims to ensure that education at third level for people with an intellectual disability leads to appropriate employment opportunities.
Staff of Trinity College and a number of voluntary agencies teach on the course. Each student has a "mentor" and is fully included in the social and cultural life of the college.
Funding for the Institute has been received from a range of public and private donors, including Atlantic Philanthropies, the Ireland Funds, Special Olympics Ireland, the Department of Education and Science, the Higher Education Authority and the European Commission.