Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)

I reiterate what Deputy Browne said. It is grossly unfair. I was disappointed to hear the Taoiseach's remarks today. Last Friday, I received telephone calls from parents who were crying over this. When I suggested to them that they come up on Tuesday to protest, they jumped at the idea. They had no plans in place but feel so strongly about this matter that more than 100 people turned up here yesterday to protest.

I have no doubt there are abuses in the system. The Government is correct that reform is needed in respect of all forms of extra resources provided to schools. I honestly believe, however, there are many genuine cases, not alone in Enniscorthy or other parts of Wexford but also throughout the country. Come September-October, parents are going to be very angry. The Minister should rethink this proposed cut, which is not fair.

The Irish are reluctant to protest. I do not believe they would do so if they were hungry. However, their children are a different matter. Come September-October parents will be upset when these SNA and resource teacher numbers are cut, given the many other ways in which they have been hit.

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