Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wrote to the clerk and Cathaoirleach of the committee a few days ago to say that the career guidance teachers associations should come before us to discuss a multitude of issues, including this one. I very much see it in my constituency with Shannon Airport and the huge industrial zone there. It is one of the largest industrial zones outside Dublin, where there is huge amount of foreign direct investment, aircraft mechanics, aircraft sprayers, everything - you name it. Many of these foreign companies, for example, Lufthansa, are making major investments. They have extremely ambitious plans, but they cannot get the workers. They are not coming out of UL, they are not coming out of TUS and they are not coming in at apprentice level. This lack of labour coming through will be the next drain on the economy. Many of those in Mr. Bermingham's age group who qualify will go to Australia or Canada and explore the opportunities there.

I want to conclude by saying to the Cathaoirleach that as we proceed with our work programme, the career guidance teachers might come before us at some point.