Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

Gabhaim buíochas dona Seanadóirí uilig as an bhfáilte croíúil a chur siad romham anseo inniu. I thank Senators for their warm welcome and I look forward to working with them over the next two years and nine months in my new role. I was chuffed that, on my first day as Minister of State in February 2000, my father was in the Seanad to welcome me and it was particularly nice that my brother was present today to welcome me.

It is unfortunate that the topic we are discussing is close to my heart. I wish to address a misunderstanding, particularly in light of comments made by Senator Brian Hayes. He kept referring to the school and area with which I am associated. My association for a long number of proud years is with the second level school at Sion Hill and there is absolutely no threat to that school. The decision relating to the third level college has no implications for that school.