Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

The 400 to 500 teachers who are now teaching non-Irish children were never included in our programme for Government. However, we recognised that acute need and those teachers are successfully providing English classes to pupils. There is a target to be reached in this area and it is doubtful that it can be done by 2007, but we have addressed the most acute needs first in those areas where postponement was not an option. I heard of one school recently with pupils representing over 100 different nationalities.

The tackling of disadvantage has had a great impact in the schools in our larger cities, urban centres and more unsuspected places where disadvantage clearly exists. Thankfully, the recent group commissioned by the Minister recognised this fact, for which we are very grateful.

The ongoing spending in education is not always visible. It is often manifested in subtle ways when, for example, transport is not a difficulty for people with special needs. Where funding is needed, even if it is for only one pupil to attend a particular school, it is provided, often at enormous cost. Needs are addressed and met.

I commend the Minister on her work with her Department and the level of co-operation we experience when we make representations to her. I am surprised that the Opposition did not put more creativity into its motion because this is an important issue and one which the Minister will continue to address.

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