Maria Byrne (Fine Gael)
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I thank everyone for their presentations. I wish to compliment my colleague, Deputy Jim Daly, on bringing this Bill forward. I am currently the chairperson of a board of management so I am looking at it from an interesting angle. Students represent the kernel of our discussion today.

The children's ombudsman covers those up to 18 years of age, whereas this measure will cover all aspects of education, as I understand it. There are many people in education who are over 18, so we need to examine that cohort also. As chairperson of a board of management I would welcome having a "go to" person.

I compliment the principal and staff of the school where I am the board's chairperson on the wonderful job they do. There is a level of accountability not only concerning the staff but also the parents' council and the board of management.

Ultimately, as Deputy Daly said, if one has a small percentage where there are difficulties it would be important to have a dedicated person to whom the board of management or principal could turn.