Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

On the subject of the third secret of Fatima, it would be useful if we had a public debate in regard to what was discussed at the meeting which took place last week. For clarification purposes, the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes is an bord snip nua, the group currently investigating expenditure by each Department of State.

Perhaps the Minister will state whether he or his officials, prior to meeting with the group, had any discussions with the education partners in regard to areas of potential wastage within the education Vote. From my discussions with the partners, they can readily identify second and third level expenditure areas in which savings can be achieved. Progress can be made in this area if we work on a collaborative basis. Was there any discussion with the education partners in advance of that meeting?

Can the Minister outline any potential areas where big savings and reform can be achieved? I have gone on record in regard to a number of them during the past six months or so. We can make progress if we work with the education partners.

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