Larry Butler (Fianna Fail)

I call for a debate on education, which would be timely. The teaching of English to foreign students is making a fine contribution to the country. We could certainly increase the number of foreign students coming here as it is worth approximately €800 million to the country. For example, Britain and New Zealand have increased the number of foreign students going to those countries to learn English. This is worth €8.5 billion to Britain and €4 billion to New Zealand, a country similar to Ireland. This area should be developed immediately. It would also benefit other sectors of the community. Will the Minister for Education and Science come to the House to discuss this matter?

It appears we are very strict when it comes to allowing people come to this country, which I understand. However, we have a much tighter visa system than the UK and it is time we looked at how we assess these people who want to come here to learn English. This is the way forward in terms of upskilling people in the education system.