In the current economic crisis, and with 78 million people at risk of poverty in the EU, it is more important than ever that the EU in its Member States demonstrate a clear commitment that the social needs and rights of people are not subservient to needs of the economy.

I would like to propose a Erasmus type scheme to be made available to citizens of all ages, citizens who do not attend third level but who are studying in the university of life. Young people in employment, women working full time in the home, the elderly, unemployed people, anyone basically who is curious about how the world aroun