Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree; this is a landmark moment in education. It is the right thing to do. A huge financial investment is involved, but we had to take the first step and the Department deemed it appropriate that that would relate to primary education. I am conscious of the benefit the scheme provides for parents and guardians because I meet them frequently and visit schools throughout the country. It has been universally welcomed as a positive step forward.

I acknowledge that when there has been a first step, one would hope there will be a second step. I have never made any apology in that regard, but I am conscious everything has to fit within a budgetary consideration. There are many competing demands across government and equally within my Department and, therefore, while it will be a matter for consideration, I cannot say when that will be or when we can achieve it. It is certainly an ambition, but I cannot give any commitment or guarantee as to when we will achieve it.

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