Joe O'Toole (Independent)

When the Seanad dealt with the Immigration Bill 2004 and a motion on the matter, Senators pressed the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on the issue of Irish citizens who were born here. The Minister took a strong position on getting the legislation through at that time, but he promised to take a pragmatic and open view of the matter after it had been enacted. When he said that he would not close the door on Irish citizens, we wondered if he would stick to his word. I am happy to note that the Minister is as good as his word and I welcome his decision to find ways of dealing with the matter. We have a moral and ethical imperative to look after the families of children born in Ireland. I hope the 17,000 families will be dealt with in a pragmatic manner. It is quite fair and in order for the Minister to consider that the new system will be open to those who act honestly with the authorities. I refer to people of good character who seek to live in this country in a self-sufficient manner. I have always asked that we take such a practical approach to the matter, rather than having a closed mind.

Although the Houses were not sitting yesterday afternoon, there was a very enthusiastic demonstration outside the gates of Leinster House involving young, energetic and enthusiastic student teachers from the various colleges of education. It brought me back to my youth and it was great to see them. They are the kind of people one would be delighted to see in charge of and moulding the next generation of schoolchildren and leaders. They were making the very simple demand that they should be recognised for what they are and that there should be jobs available to them.

Members know that class sizes are still far too large. We need the student teachers in the schools and therefore I ask the Minister for Education and Science, who is now a couple of months in the job, to outline in the House her plans regarding teacher numbers and teacher supply. She should recognise that student teachers who spend many months in schools teaching, learning and improving their methods should be entitled to claim an allowance or pay during those months, just as nurses, gardaí and others get paid while they are on the job during their training periods. I would like the Minister to outline to the House how she intends to provide for the future of those brilliant young student teachers.