Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

It is important to do the job one was elected to do and that is my aim. That is why I take every opportunity to speak on behalf of my community in this House.

I referred earlier to what are perceived as disadvantaged communities. I am not sure that it is always appropriate to consider specific areas in certain constituencies, identify them as being disadvantaged and state that disadvantage does not exist anywhere else. The latter is obviously not the case. However, there are areas in which more challenges than normal arise in respect of school attendance and the recruitment of good teachers. In fairness, teachers, particularly those with good experience, are sometimes obliged to make career choices. It is difficult for schools in disadvantaged schools to fight to attract or retain staff on the basis that they might have an easier life elsewhere. I hope I will not be contacted by teachers for saying that.

It is important that the disadvantaged communities and schools to which I refer will always require even more help than others. As the Taoiseach famously stated, even though all boats tend to rise in good times, we should not forget the smaller vessels. As far as education is concerned, it is extremely important that we heed this advice. I will always fight on behalf of the various schools in my constituency but it is important to fight even harder for those who require special attention.

I wish the Minister well in dealing with the Bill. It is important legislation. I am always pleased to hear Opposition spokespersons, even this close to a general election, welcoming legislation.

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