Ivana Bacik (Independent)

Thank you, a Chathaoirligh. Senators should read Deputy Gilmore's speech in which he set out clearly the parameters of the Labour Party's economic policy and that in the budget we would favour a 50:50 split between taxation and revenue raising measures and cuts in spending.

It is ironic that Senators are looking for the Labour Party policy on education when, even after 13 years in government, Fianna Fáil's policy on education is still not clear. We need clarity across all education sectors on the extent of the cuts to be imposed. I, therefore, ask the Deputy Leader for a debate because it is extremely difficult for those involved in the university, primary and secondary school sectors to plan ahead.