David Norris (Independent)

I ask the Leader if the period allotted for statements on the Middle East could be treated in the manner of a rolling debate which the House had on a previous occasion. It would allow for the debate to be adjourned and resumed if speakers were still waiting to contribute.

I thank Senator McDowell for his kind words about Trinity College. I am a graduate and one of its several distinguished representatives in the House. Modesty being one our principal characteristics, I am referring to the distinction of my colleagues. I am very proud of Trinity this morning. In a period of cutbacks, it is making a substantial investment in areas of disadvantage. The college is committing itself to 15% and it has contact with schools in those areas. The point was made this morning by the spokeswoman for the university that it is very important for the Government to become involved at primary and even pre-school level. All of us in this House have made that point in debates on education.

I recently visited the Marlborough Street Central Model School reading day. It is part of the Breaking the Cycle programme where the children are taken at a certain stage but they are dumped back out again. I reiterate the best investment the Government can make in education to conquer the problem of drugs, and everything else in the inner city, is to keep the programme going from primary school up to university. The first couple of doctors, vets or architects who graduate will be the role models.

I wish to raise two other matters.