Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

The €3.5 billion to build up world class research is of great importance. We have made huge strides in the past ten years where instead of having derivative, applied and second hand research, we are carrying out cutting edge research ourselves.

I welcome the further investment in education and the emphasis on science and physical education. Obviously it is right to target resources to achieve a pupil-teacher ratio of 20:1 in primary schools but I am a universalist and believe we should strive to provide that for all classes. The targets in the plan have the colour of Department of Finance thinking. It is socially progressive if it is a first step but we should bring up the level across the board because no area is more important than education. I also welcome the 50,000 extra child care places and the plan for preschool places for those who need them.

The plan recognises that in the health services there is a strong social class gradient that must be tackled. Health and survival rates fall according to a person's position on the social scale. That is unacceptable.

I welcome the €1 billion for the access programme for the arts and another €1 billion for sports facilities. This is an excellent plan that should act as a foundation for the work of the next Government and I am confident it will.