Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)

Is there a timescale for the rationalisation programme? I presume the thinking behind the rationalisation has to do with cost savings. What cost savings will there be as a result of the amalgamation of these services. Different changes have been proposed over the years for this sector by the various parties, but to a large extent the system as it exists has worked and there have been successful outcomes for students. Why is the system being tinkered with now when the savings that will be made are minimal. Why are we going ahead with amalgamation of these VECs? The VECs have been democratic, open and accountable bodies, but we are talking about reducing their number. This will be harmful to students and I do not see the logic behind the plan for reducing the number of committees.

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