Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

I do not see the analogous precision that Senator O'Toole does. While there is a close analogy, the big distinction is the continuum. I consider this to be relevant and await a reply from the Minister of State. I am supportive of what he says and I hope his suggestion is workable. I hope it can be introduced and that the Minister for Finance sees the wisdom and relevance of what he is saying.

This argument is strongly supported from a number of perspectives. The difference I see is that there is no continuum. I understand there is no continuum in nursing colleges either. It was not my understanding that a nursing student was automatically guaranteed a continuum into employment from nursing college. Irrespective of the specific nature of the primary school teaching degree course, a student in a primary school teaching college is not given a guarantee of a continuum into employment. Therefore, there is no contractual arrangement other than a commitment entered into by the student to take the degree programme with the specific target of working as a primary school teacher.

This distinction remains in my mind and I would like the Minister of State to address it. Perhaps I am posing unnecessary and unwarranted questions. I am supportive of the sentiments the Minister of State has expressed.