Seanad debates

Thursday, 5 June 2008

11:00 am

Photo of Dominic HanniganDominic Hannigan (Labour)

I join Senator de Búrca in welcoming the report Dóchas published earlier. The organisation appeared before the Sub-Committee on Overseas Development last week. Its work is excellent and it is another sign that if we contribute more to overseas development, we will achieve results and we will help to ensure aid reaches the right places.

I agree with Senator Mary White's comments on the involvement of women in politics. I have mentioned previously women comprise only 10% of the Cabinet, which is clearly not enough. Ireland has the second lowest representation of females in government in Europe with only Malta behind it. However, males are not prevalent in some aspects of society. This year fewer males are sitting the leaving certificate examinations than females. Young male underachievement and participation in school are major issues. Will the Leader arrange for the Minister for Education and Science to come to the House to discuss how he is encouraging young males to stay in school because this has implications for crime levels and achievement?

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