Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Thank you very much, Dr. Fennelly. We have had nine excellent submissions. While they all varied in terms of their content and main points, there was a certain amount of commonality among them. Such commonalities included a deep appreciation for the boards of management of schools and the need for extra supports and resources for those boards, as well as for schools in general. The partnership approach was very much welcomed. The point was well made that there are times when it seems as if the school system is seen as the answer to all of society's ills. The assumption is often made that general problems or challenges in society can be addressed through the school system. That obviously puts a lot of pressure and stress on teachers, students and boards of management and we must be mindful of that.

I will now invite members to comment or pose questions. Deputy Jim Daly is first.