Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister and thank her for staying for the entire debate. In three and a half years in this House I have never seen a Minister speak entirely extempore and with such authority. I hope she will take full advantage of the social partnership talks and helpful pressures from the trade unions to get the best possible deal for education, because there is no more worthwhile area of investment. Members must excuse my voice. I am in a bad condition for a politician, having nearly lost my voice.