Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)

I put down a parliamentary question on this issue some weeks ago and was disappointed with the response I received. The various initiatives to which the Minister referred to in his response today seem rather ad hoc in nature and are apparently confined to post-primary level. Education on money management must begin at primary level. I have suggested that it commence in fourth class so that children get a grounding in the subject at an early age. Given the current financial and economic status of this country, it is about time that money management was included in the curriculum.

Is there is any mechanism by which this matter can be reviewed? For example, is there a curriculum review committee which could examine what needs to be done? Personal money management and budgeting must be taught in a coherent and precise way, not in the current ad hoc manner. I take note of what the Minister has said, but the current piecemeal and inadequate provision is unacceptable.

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