Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I raised the issue of the Marino Institute of Education on yesterday's Order of Business and was pleased it was taken up by many others over the course of the day. Senator Fitzgerald mentioned that the real issue is what will happen to students in the future. It has now come to light that the college cannot finalise its teacher education budget for next year because it does not yet know the cost caused by the legal action fiasco. The college was advised not to take legal action but responded in a macho fashion by allowing the principal take a case for constructive dismissal. Its attitude was, to coin a term, "Bring it on". I will not try the Cathaoirleach's patience, but have written to him this morning seeking the urgent adjournment of the House to deal with the issue. I know he will respond positively and I hope to deal with this matter in an hour's time. I look for his support in this regard.

There are two arguments with regard to the issue of special needs assistants. If a person is employed in a school to work as a special needs assistant with a child who has a certain disability, the person will develop skills in that specific area. That person will also develop skills in general areas of support for children with special needs. Therefore, it should be easy and reasonable to create opportunities for such people to apply for positions in other schools. A panel arrangement should be put in place whereby they can be redeployed to schools for which they would be suitable.

I express my thanks to Senator Mansergh for setting the record straight regarding public and private service pay contrary to what Senator Ross had said. I misled the House somewhat——