Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I, too, welcome all of the witnesses. Their contributions have been uplifting. When Brexit is discussed, usually all one hears about are people's concerns and the negative impact it will have on the economy. It is great to hear that Brexit will provide opportunities for the education sector. The challenge is how best to package such opportunities and make them a positive reality for this country. The old adage that one must speculate to accumulate springs to mind. The contributions made here today are especially important and many good points have been put forward. Is there a mechanism whereby all of the delegations present can feed into a central point to harness and package their positive ideas and suggestions together? Does such a mechanism exist?

The witnesses mentioned that funding is needed immediately in order for us to benefit. Is there a figure for same? Have the witnesses heard positive sounds from the Department that the amount they suggested will be provided? I am not being political when I say that we are only fooling ourselves if we do not get the funding. We must grasp the opportunities presented by Brexit or they will pass us by. It is vitally important that the delegations have a platform and that their message is listened to and acted upon. If, as Deputy Thomas Byrne said, over the next year to 18 months they find that this is not the case, then we need to hear about it because we need to ensure that all opportunities are grasped.