Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I agree very strongly that the House should meet as soon as possible and I hope the Leader will give a response in that regard. In addition to the matters I raised yesterday, the report today of cutbacks in education provides a further reason for a debate. It is appropriate to point out to the Leader, with whom I have discussed at various times over the last 16 years the importance of investment in educational disadvantage, that at a time when we are building up our infrastructure, it is inconceivable that we should take steps to cut out the disadvantaged and to cut back on second chance education. Those aspects of the educational system are crucial if we are to narrow the gap. In the lead up to consideration of a new national agreement, this cannot go ahead. Those decisions must be reversed. While I cannot go into the issues now, these matters have to be discussed. The relevant Minister should come to the House to explain the situation. This is a development which could pull the rug from under any national agreement. It goes against the proposal to narrow the gap between the haves and have-nots in our society, where the Celtic tiger has not reached into all corners. I appeal to the Leader to ask the Minister for Education and Science to come to the House to deal with these matters and to hear the views of Members.