Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)

They do invaluable work which gives them great satisfaction. Time is of the essence.

I thank the Cathaoirleach and the Leader of the House for providing an opportunity to discuss the area of adult and further education which some years ago was seen as the Cinderella of the Department but its real worth is showing through. While there have been increases amounting to 50% in the past five years, I look forward to further increases of at least 50% in coming years. The Leader of the House has a particular interest in education, having been, like me and the Minister, a teacher for many years.

I thank Senators not only for particiapting in the debate but also for treating me with the utmost courtesy whenever I have attended the Seanad. As this is my last opportunity to do so, I thank the officials in the House for their courtesy, guidance and advice, which has been valued. I also thank my officials in the Department of Education and Science who have been unfailing in helping me in the past four and a half years. I thank Senators for their comments and wish each of them the best in their continuing careers.