Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

I hope Members on all sides of the House are similarly interested in the struggle against disadvantage. I ask them not to conceal the nature of their opposition to my proposals or attempt to dress up their affection for vested interests and the wealthy as concern for students.

Senator Fitzgerald spoke of the Government's record. I am sure he does not need to be reminded that the Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrats Government increased gross funding for education by 87%, the largest increase in this country's history. The money has been well spent, by and large, but I am keen that we re-examine the allocation of funds for tackling educational disadvantage. The massive sum of €5.5 billion will be spent in 2002. I welcome the fact that Senator McHugh agrees that we should review how €350 million per annum is allocated for student supports. I intend to examine how this funding can be used to help those on the margins of the income limits, such as those excluded because their income is slightly more than €21,000 per year. I agree that these income limits are too low, but I have just €350 million to spend in this area. I will lobby for extra money, but adjustments will still have to be made.