This paper examines recent reforms in the Irish further education and training (FET) sector in response to government commitments to move towards a lifelong learning society. The context is set by tracing development of the Irish FET sector. An outline of legislative change and measures that have been put in place to reform the Irish system in accordance with European developments on learner mobility is provided. The basic architecture of the Irish national framework of qualifications is set out with reference to the proposed EQF. A review of progress in implementation is presented with particular focus on developing quality assurance systems. The paper concludes by exploring the challenges in implementing new qualifications structures. More specifically, it is analysing policy on the one hand and praxis on the other in making lifelong learning a reality for all. (Contains 1 table.)