Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Ryan. We will have the Minister, Deputy Harris, before the committee next week when I will raise with him the specific issue of post-Brexit opportunities. I thank the witnesses for their attendance. The discussion has been very informative and productive. As I said, it is indicative of the importance of TUs that this is the second time in a short number of months that several of the witnesses have appeared before us. Everybody is very excited by the transformative plans for the technological universities and I commend all the witnesses on their hard work, dedication and commitment.

It is fantastic that we have two lady presidents in attendance. It says a great deal about giving women equal opportunities at third level, which has been a male-dominated sector for a long number of years, if the men present do not mind my saying so.

This is a seismic shift and positive change for the Irish education system. I thank the witnesses for their offer to come before the committee when we discuss proposals for reform of the leaving certificate. Unfortunately, the meeting had to be held online due to Covid. We would prefer if witnesses could attend in person but hopefully when we all get our vaccinations, we will be able to gather in person once more.