Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his contribution. I was conscious of the time in the case of both contributions but it was worthwhile listening to both Ministers, as it feeds nicely into what the joint committee is doing. While doing so has left us short of time for questions, members can get written replies to questions if need be. However, I appreciate that the contributions today from both Ministers were highly informative. I will take all questions now and am conscious the Ministers must leave at 3.15 p.m. If any questions have not been answered by then, perhaps members will be furnished with written replies to feed into their studies. In short, the report Senator Clune has undertaken on behalf of the committee is like a rolling report that will be updated every couple of months. In essence, the committee is engaged in continuous assessment, with which the Minister agrees in respect of education. We will begin with Deputy Calleary, followed by Deputy Tóibín and then Senator Clune.