Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

—proceed. When one wants cohesion in Government, this is not the way one initiates the debate. It must be conducted within Government in the first instance and we should not know anything about it.

This issue is not being handled properly and that is why the Government's so-called amendment is a fig leaf. This issue has sown much confusion. It is difficult for parents and students and has introduced a total climate of confusion. This is not the time to add to the burdens of students and parents. This multi-tier price system – if that is what the Minister has in mind – would be dangerous. The great educationalist, Senator O'Toole, pointed out that there are major problems with maintenance which we should address first. These proposals will not bring about greater equity. What we are doing for our students is the greatest investment we can make in the future.