Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

One third of men under the age of 25 are signing on, which is an increase of 158% in the past two years. In Cork alone, approximately 7,700 young people are signing on. Despite what the Minister said, an element of discrimination against young people is being introduced in the section.

I do not agree that we have provided sufficient training and education places. The Minister referred previously to work and the need for work. No job stimulus or work programme is included in the Bill. Unfortunately, emigration was rampant in the 1960s and 1980s. From talking to people in Bishopstown and Cork city I am aware that young people are considering emigrating to Australia and Canada, destinations that appear to be recession proof. I do not have the exact figure but the number of people who have been forced to emigrate this year has increased by approximately one third. Perhaps the Minister will provide a more accurate figure.

This cut is, in effect, saying to young people who had no role whatsoever in the economic collapse of this country, who in many cases were in school or higher education, that they must pay for the Government's incompetence. My concern is that no job stimulus plan, back to education scheme or reinforcement of education is contained in the Bill. The Minister for Education and Science is constantly rowing back on what is on offer. The Minister is aware of the schemes to which I refer. I am genuinely concerned about that, in addition to the cuts. It does not make sense that an extra €56 million was allocated to FÁS. Young people are looking for hope and they do not find any in the Bill.