Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael)

I ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the strategy announced by the Minister for Education and Skills regarding literacy and numeracy. The strategy, which was published following a consultation period, focuses on improving standards at higher and lower levels, increasing literacy and numeracy skills and setting standards for the uptake of higher level maths. It will involve changes in teacher training and continuing professional development. One of the intentions behind this important strategy is to raise awareness. A debate in this House would certainly raise awareness and we could have a useful discussion if the Minister is prepared to outline how he intends to proceed in this area. It was not my intention to refer to the closure of the emergency department at Roscommon County Hospital, but the issue was raised by two Senators. It is outrageous to suggest the Taoiseach or the Minister for Health would take advantage of the situation. Senator Terry Leyden suggested services were being improved at Castlebar hospital, while Senator Thomas Byrne made a twisted suggestion regarding the Taoiseach's relationship with members of his party.