Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

One Senator made the point that it was obvious the advice that would be given would be considered unimportant. I argue that the advice will be well-used and recognised by the Government.

I welcome the underlying objectives of the proposals that target persons with personal and educational difficulties and those who are socially disadvantaged. The principles behind the board's establishment in the first place are still there. The focus of where the funds will be dispersed is still part of the legislation. I want to see funds made available to tackle mobility issues in rural areas. The proposed legislation will focus on the RAPID and CLÁR areas which shows how all facets of Government policy have been included.

The Opposition asserts that the board has been abolished. It has not and it will have an advisory role as it did in the past.