Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

I, too, believe there is room for better utilisation of existing facilities. These facilities have been put in place at great cost to the Exchequer in a worthwhile investment that will provide a good return to the taxpayer. I emphasise we must maintain the quality of access to third level students in all parts of the country while at the same time appreciating one cannot have centres of excellence in specialist areas in each province either. I refer to the important work entrusted to the Hunt group and its subsequent report, which was produced at the end of 2010. This important work must receive further impetus to ensure the continuation of the valuable increase in participation in recent years. All Members are aware of the importance of ensuring people have access to third level education both to develop an individual's potential for his or her betterment, as well as that of society, and from the perspective of employment creation and the economic stimulus that is needed.

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