Seanad debates

Thursday, 30 October 2008

11:00 am

Photo of Feargal QuinnFeargal Quinn (Independent)

Its investment in education is approximately 33% higher than Ireland's as a percentage gross domestic product.

Finland has a fascinating history which contains many similarities to Ireland's. Its population is almost the same and it went through a Finnish revival in the 1890s which was similar to the Gaelic revival. It won independence in 1917 and has the experience of a civil war and a powerful neighbour. Its history is so similar to ours that it is worthy of study. However, its success over the past 30 years are most interesting. I was fascinated by the figures revealed in The Irish Times and suggest Senators read the aforementioned article before we hold our debate.

I gather that the prize fund for the national lottery is increasing. However, it was reported in the newspapers that Catholic Youth Care is concerned that its funding is being cut by 10% even though 90% of it comes from lottery money. I do not quite understand this. Is it possible that the Government is using lottery money to make savings? This had not dawned on me previously but it is a stealthy way of making cuts by using the increasing pool of money in the national lottery. I ask the Leader to investigate the matter.

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