Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

I thank my colleagues on this side of the House, some 25 Members, who spoke in support of this motion. I thank the many parents, teachers, members of boards of management who came from all parts of the country to hear this debate in their Parliament. I want to recognise their attendance because they came for one reason — to support their schools and their children and ensure they get the best opportunities.

If the Minister decided to support our motion, it would send a positive signal not only to those 28 schools concerned but to the primary education sector that the Government will deliver on its promises. By not supporting the motion, the Minister is saying the commitment made in the programme for Government is a thing of the past.

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