Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank Aontas na Mac Léin in Éirinn, the Union of Students in Ireland, for its work on these proposals. I also thank Deputy Ó Broin for his work in bringing forward the legislation. I welcome the Government's agreement to take the Bill forward to Committee Stage, which is very positive. There has been a lack of urgency on the part of the Government in dealing with this issue. If it continues at the same pace, we will be in a situation where most of the students who were penalised last year for complying with public health measures will be in difficulty again. I see the Minister is leaving the Chamber as I am making this important point. The students will have left college by the time this issue is dealt with by the Government. I thank the Minister for deciding to stay.

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