Ivana Bacik (Independent)

We will all wear blue in support of men's cancer programmes, although it may be somewhat difficult for some of our Kerry colleagues to conform. It was a great result not just for Dublin, but also for tourism. Ireland had a great result in Saturday's rugby. Both results gave a considerable boost to people's positivity in the face of significant economic challenges.

I renew my call for a debate on third level education. The Minister will attend the Chamber to discuss the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Bill 2011 and issues concerning universities may be raised in that context and in light of the inaugural address of the provost of Trinity, Professor Patrick Prendergast. Like other Senators, I had the privilege of attending that address. It is worth pointing out that he noted Trinity's achievements and mounted a robust defence of it and universities generally at a time when universities and higher education are coming under attack. As he stated, Trinity is unique in entering the list of the top 50 universities worldwide. It was in 43rd place at its highest point, but it has since slipped down. Being one of the top 50 was a considerable achievement. As the provost pointed out, only one Irish-owned company numbers among the Fortune 500 companies. Trinity is now in 65th place and there is a concern that reduced funding and resourcing of third level and the stifling of autonomous decision-making will hinder creativity and innovation in universities.

A Higher Education Authority, HEA, study today shows that Government investment in research in universities, colleges and institutes of technology has had a direct return in investment of €1.8 billion. This is a matter of great concern at this time of economic challenge. I will renew my call to the Minister, but we need a fuller debate on third level funding. It is important that universities have autonomy and, in light of student numbers doubling, be able to hire when necessary. It should not be an either-or situation. It is not a case of putting investment into primary or third level. It should be a case of investing in education at all levels. University is not a luxury - it is a necessity, even in a time of economic challenge.

I congratulate Dublin on its ranking as ninth in the list of the world's bicycle-friendly cities. According to a Danish survey published today, this is due to visionary politicians. It is worth mentioning our lord mayor, Councillor Andrew Montague, who pioneered the Dublin bikes scheme, which has gone a long way towards making Dublin such a great city not just for football, but also for cyclists.