Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

He has seen his budget cut by 25%. In the past 12 months the only thing he has done is to carry out a review of language education which will sound the death knell for providing integration for our society. It will make the situation worse. Studies have clearly shown that migrant children in classes have the potential to improve the outturn of all pupils regardless of background. This can happen only if our children can fully participate in the class. Whether it is language or learning support, our children, no matter where they were born, have the right to reach their full potential. The Minister must reverse the decisions.

See this speech in context