Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I do not know if a risk assessment is done in regard to these kinds of matters. I certainly remember working in the same office as someone who was paid more because that person happened to be a man. I know the kind of resentments this created and, indeed, I remember the day when that was reversed as it is something that will stick with me. Those resentments will be very real.

I know the Minister completely agrees that we need to take the long view when it comes to education. However, in regard to, for example, subjects like maths and science where an alternative type of employment may be available, does the Minister not agree there is a risk in terms of the calibre of people who may well come into the profession? In turn, those people will be needed if we are going to have a sustainable workforce into the future.

It links back to people preferring a particular profession because of the income available, not exclusively because of the vocational aspect of the career choice. Does the Minister agree that is the case?

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