Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her response. I lend my support to Deputy Higgins's proposal, which I think is merited. While I note the significant range of measures that the Minister has announced in this budget and the information that she has provided to the House, there is a gap. It is a small gap which affects less than half of leaving certificate students and their families, but it should be borne in mind. As Deputy Higgins said, this scheme was probably designed when fourth year was not done in all schools and children perhaps started school a little earlier. I highlight the welcome support for 1.2 million children whose parents will receive a double payment. The Minister is talking about an expansionary budget in her Department which will benefit more than 639,000 families in just one area and it should be welcomed, particularly with the backdrop of the cost-of-living crisis.

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