Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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The Senator is correct. It is an area of major importance and the money spent on it reflects this, but that is not its reputation and we must correct this. A sum of €800 million is being spent across the various Departments involved. The skills people are given are needed in the economy. Employers wish to engage with the various programmes with a view to being able to fill the skills gaps of the future. It is not all about degrees; it is also about apprenticeships, training and so forth. The issue is the amount of money we are spending. In some cases, it is a major development for the people who take on these courses. It completely transforms their lives and they are then able to take up a job. There is a great deal happening in the area. The Department recognises this; we talk about it a great deal, but, in general, it is not getting the recognition it deserves. We have discussed this issue previously and can work on it. Many employers know the level of jobs availability next year and the year after that and are coming to the further education sector to see how we can ensure we will have people ready to take up these jobs. Undoubtedly, there is a great deal to be done.

Deputy Jonathan O'Brien has mentioned that this area has been subject to major reform. It has and many of the reforms are correct. Perhaps it has taken longer than many of us had hoped, but the reform has happened. We must now drive on and use these reform structures to drive the change that is necessary. Part of this will be to find its correct position and title in the education sector. We can work on this issue.