Peter Power (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Labour Party motion moved by Deputy O'Sullivan as it gives us an opportunity to again focus on the changing priorities of education in 2006. It also gives us a chance to focus once again on the fact that we are in the middle of the largest ever Government expenditure on education since the foundation of the State. It gives us a chance to examine the policies, proposals and any alternatives put forward by the Opposition and to hold a contest of ideas.

Unfortunately, the motion is too narrowly framed because it only focuses on class sizes and does not give us a chance to have a holistic debate on the subject. I commend the Minister for Education and Science on her stewardship since her appointment. It is widely recognised that she is one of the most outstanding Ministers for Education in the history of the State. She brings her personal experience, expertise and political ability with her and is keenly aware of modern priorities in education.

This debate should address priorities because we are in the middle of a considerable programme of Government expenditure on education. Regardless of how one looks at it, it is highly unlikely that any alternative Government would be in a position to spend far more money on education. We should, therefore, work within current parameters.

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