Celebration for OWL programme graduates at Leinster House

This year's OWL programme graduates (all photos courtesy of the Houses of the Oireachtas)

Friends and family of Oireachtas Work Learning (OWL) programme participants came to celebrate the ten trainees graduating on Thursday, 25 June.

The OWL Programme is an applied learning, development and socialisation programme for young adults with an intellectual disability and/or autism.

The Houses of the Oireachtas is the first parliament in the world to host an initiative of this kind. Five participants from Kare and five from WALK took part in placements across a range of Oireachtas offices, teams and Government departments, gaining practical experience and developing valuable workplace and life skills.

Alongside their placements, they completed Level three QQI qualifications in Health and Safety and Job Preparedness through the City of Dublin Education and Training Board, while also participating in seminars, workshops and projects throughout the year designed to build confidence, independence and job readiness.

Speaking on the ceremony, the Ceann Comhairle, Verona Murphy TD, said: "The OWL Programme continues to demonstrate the importance of inclusion, opportunity and partnership across the public service.

"This year’s graduates have contributed across a wide range of Oireachtas offices and Government Departments, developing valuable skills and experience while completing QQI qualifications and participating in projects and learning opportunities throughout the year.

"To the Class of 2026, congratulations on this important achievement. I wish you every success as you take the next steps in employment, further education or personal development."

The OWL Programme is delivered in partnership with Kare, WALK and the City of Dublin ETB and has been recognised nationally and internationally as an example of collaboration and inclusive practice across the public and civil service.

Photos and story courtesy of the Houses of the Oireachtas.