Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

This amendment is similar to the earlier amendments, in that it expands it. As we are dealing with new legislation covering higher education and third level learning, we should try to make it the most progressive and inclusive that we should be. I do not see a major difficulty with the inclusion of words such as "students" and "learners". I do not see why it would have to be looked at again. The amendment proposes that the provision would expand to include "those involved with social, community and cultural activities". I consider that is more than reasonable and that it is being as broad and as inclusive as possible, which is what we should be trying to achieve in all aspects of learning, particularly at third level. The amendment proposes a few extra words with respect to the Minister of State's own amendment. I ask the committee to accept this amendment.