Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Thank you, Deputy Martin, and my apologies for my long absence. Everything ran late in the Chamber although we were on time.

I will not go over old ground, because I am interested in looking back and reading the transcripts later to take in the debate and the engagement. I have no doubt that some recommendations came from it. That is what is really important from today's hearing with all of the witnesses and with comments from the members, that we have the opportunity to make recommendations on the scheme. It is an absolutely excellent one, but there are always ways of strengthening, improving and promoting, particularly concerning resources that are needed.

I am sure there was debate on the schools that do not have DEIS status but absolutely need to have the benefit of the HSCL scheme. That is really a key issue, because often in the same town we have schools that have DEIS status and schools that do not, but they are both dealing with levels of disadvantage. Moreover, we should not forget that in every single school there are levels of disadvantage, and there are children and families who really need those extra supports through the HSCL scheme and the strengthening families programme.

That came out very clearly in the presentation that I saw with Mr. O'Donovan and Mr. Leeson, and among the teachers and schools that were involved. One of the principals spoke about the needs of their own school, and I could not have agreed more in the case of that particular school. Two thirds of the principal's time was taken up with issues that need to be addressed by the HSCL. If there is an appeal or a recommendation that we could make, apart from all the other elements, it is that we absolutely need to have more of the schools that deserve it being given DEIS status. It is important not to forget those schools that may never be in the DEIS programme, but still have children who are suffering. They need all our help and support.

On behalf of all the committee, I thank all the representatives for attending and for their engagement. It was very insightful and informative. I know the members learned a lot, and I know I have more to learn when I read the transcripts later on. If there is anything that they would like to add to the debate, please feel free to send it on to the members after the meeting. It will be circulated to all the members, and we will do our best to include it in the final report where we will be making recommendations to the Minister. We will have an extra session now with the competitors who presented at the WorldSkills competition, in which SOLAS were involved.

I understand they are going to the Tánaiste's office. They will probably be back with us soon, so I suggest we suspend for ten minutes. Perhaps we might check with the Tánaiste's office on the timing. If we need to suspend for longer, we will. It is very important that we have the opportunity to speak to the witnesses and congratulate them. Seven gold medals is fantastic. I suggest we go into private session now.