Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Halton. I appreciate both opening statements. They will be very helpful in the completion of our report on this matter, which we hope to produce relatively soon. Before I invite Senator Freeman to begin her questions I will make a number of points which could offer a little bit of clarity. I struggled to get to grips with the reasons for difficulties in securing placements. Both the witnesses referenced certain commitments that need to be made by other bodies. Could they put some additional information on that on the record?

Are educational facilities at capacity in terms of demand, as opposed to the ability to cater for more students? Do the facilities have sufficient capacity so that whatever applicants come from leaving certificate level and other age levels can start?