Deirdre Clune (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The Minister used the word "hope". We need more than the hope that curricular reform will work. Project Maths is being piloted in 24 schools at the moment. How long it will take to roll out and have an impact? We are staring into an abyss. I spoke to representatives of Engineers Ireland during the recent engineers week. They are seriously concerned over the number of students attracted to the sciences, engineering and mathematics. Finland identified a problem with mathematics. The authorities trained teachers and put them on a different level, if one likes. They focused on supporting mathematics because the economy needed it. In that regard the Minister has a very important role to play along with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

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