Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 14, inclusive, together. The newly established Cabinet committee on children and education will oversee the implementation of commitments in the programme for Government in the area of children and education, including further and higher education, with a specific focus on child poverty and well-being. The first meeting of the new Cabinet committee will take place shortly. Work has been taking place with officials meeting with organisations and groups ahead of the next Cabinet committee. The new Cabinet committee will enable a greater focus on improving the lives of children in Ireland and giving them the best start possible, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to fulfil their potential. We believe that through education, we can empower young people. They can develop the skills necessary to build a better life and achieve better outcomes for themselves and their families. I speak regularly with the Ministers, Deputies O'Gorman, Foley and Harris, at Cabinet meetings and I also engage closely with Minister the Minister of State, Deputy Madigan.

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