Given the dramatic increase in the number of access initiatives, some level of co-operation and dialogue between institutions has emerged as a crucial factor for the future development in the field. In 1996 the Access Made Accessible (AMA) group, a national network of Access Officers from a variety of institutions, was established to provide a forum for discussion, mutual support and the sharing of experience and information for those involved in access. The group meets on a regular basis with a view to exploring ways of developing areas of co-operation between third-level institutions and minimizing duplication of effort.
In 1999, a report commissioned by the Registrars of the Universities in the Republic was compiled by the group. Discussions have also taken place with Department of Education and Science on the issue of the Higher Education Grant and other key access concerns. The CAO (Central Applications Office) have also acted on advice from the group on including information on the Higher Education Grant on its application form.
In the absence of a coordinated national policy on access, the AMA sees co-operation between third-level institutions as crucial to the success of access initiatives.
In this context the group have met with the Combat Poverty Agency and issues related to disadvantaged access. Members are currently in the process of preparing a response to the Points Commission Report.
The group is currently considering a more formalized structure as the number of Access Officers increase. The hope is to maintain a supportive network while still reflecting the sectorial interests.