Yesterday, Minister for Finance Jack Chambers TD hosted a pivotal event in Páirc Ui Chaoimh, Cork, to develop Ireland’s first National Financial Literacy Strategy. The gathering saw 91 organizations, including the Central Bank of Ireland, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, and international bodies like the OECD and the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, coming together to discuss financial education priorities.
Financial literacy encompasses people’s awareness, behaviour, knowledge, attitudes, and skills regarding money. It’s essential for everyone to make informed financial decisions. This initiative follows a nationwide survey and an April 2024 Mapping Report that identified gaps and priorities in Ireland’s financial education.
Minister Chambers emphasized the importance of financial literacy, highlighting its role in helping people make better financial decisions and navigate an increasingly digital world. He praised the wide range of stakeholders for their commitment to enhancing financial knowledge across the country.
The event marks a significant step towards the national strategy, set to be published by the end of 2024. The strategy aims to align with the OECD’s principles on financial consumer protection and literacy, ensuring a coordinated approach to financial education in Ireland.
Key Points:
- The 2022 Retail Banking Review recommended a unified approach to comply with OECD principles on financial consumer protection and literacy.
- The national financial literacy strategy project was launched in July 2023.
- The 2020 OECD Recommendation on Financial Literacy defines it as the combination of awareness, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors needed to make sound financial decisions.
- The April 2024 Mapping Report identified financial literacy gaps and potential target groups for interventions.
This collaborative effort aims to foster economic and social prosperity through improved financial education, setting a strong foundation for Ireland’s financial future.