John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I am giving my opinion and Senators Ulick Burke and O'Toole do not have to agree with it. I certainly know Senator Ulick Burke will not agree with it but that is regardless.

During the past ten or 15 years, the educational system has seen major challenges and changes. We all acknowledge that. We had social changes which affect every family in the country. We have multiculturalism, different nationalities in classes, special needs and integration. These are major challenges for any one profession to cope with. We responded quite well in dealing with it. More challenges are ahead and we must yet go full circle.

Regarding the academic standard of a teacher, one can be a brilliant academic but not necessarily good at imparting that knowledge.