Gillian Toole (Meath East, Independent)

Déanaim comhghairdeas leis an Aire agus leis an Aire Stáit. I should stick to the title of economic enabler, but the social care benefits to be gained from the power of further and higher education cannot be ignored. Not a day goes by in this Chamber or in our communities that we do not discuss the plight of children with additional needs and special abilities. We get briefings from various healthcare groups and support groups on the stark realities of life for our ageing population. These vulnerable children and adults require additional supports from occupational and speech therapists, special needs assistants and carers. The education and training boards delivering further education courses and work experience opportunities to students can provide graduates in these areas of critical social need. Even as I reference the ETBs the University of Ulster is already trying to attract students from my local ETB further education courses with various bursary and rent-free incentives. This is something we need to monitor.

Going forward we must ensure there is adequate resourcing of higher education and research by the State. We must also ensure there is balanced and unbiased education to ensure the well-being of all members of our community.

See this speech in context