Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

Yes.

I welcome the opportunity to speak in this important and urgent debate on educational disadvantage. I commend Sinn Féin for bringing forth this excellent motion which highlights the gross hypocrisy of the Government, in particular the Labour Party, in terms of cuts which will affect the most disadvantaged pupils in society, including those with special needs. Shame on the Government parties after all their talk and false promises prior to the general election.

As I stated earlier, the Government is in breach of Article 28.1 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Education Act 1988 which makes specific reference to the education of children with disabilities. The Government is in this regard and the broader debate on the economy and banking crisis making the most disadvantaged pay for the sins of others, namely, the greedy mé féiners who have destroyed the country.

As the only Deputy in Dublin North Central to stand up and fight for DEIS schools, I will be voting against these cuts. The silence of the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Bruton, and Deputy Ó Ríordáin is deafening. The other two Deputies representing Dublin North Central are standing over the damage being done to DEIS schools and the removal of 438 DEIS teaching posts from 270 primary schools.

I urge all Members to support this valuable motion which I commend to the House.

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