Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

They have been targeted at the disadvantaged and those with special needs. No one suggests that they be targeted elsewhere. Having addressed those issues, which will continue to be priorities, class sizes will be reduced this year.

Deputy Connaughton commented on the important work of Youth Work. I will give credit to the former Minister of State, Deputy de Valera, who provided considerable financing for Youth Work, which supports developments in schools.

I look forward to Committee Stage and to hearing the Opposition's opinions, recommendations and amendments. Taken with the other recommendations being implemented, I hope to make a distinct improvement for the small number of schools — it is not a crisis around the country — with serious disciplinary problems.

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