Martin Conway (Fine Gael)

The way in which the House conducted its business last night elevated the standing of the Seanad. It was a new departure in terms of policy making, policy discussion and policy delivery, which is the reason Senators are here. We saw significant movement in the right direction last night. People with disabilities will have their rights enshrined in legislation and we will see long overdue legislation on mental capacity. I hope 2012 will be a pioneering year for people with special needs and physical and intellectual disabilities. If the Government wishes to do something memorable, it should deliver this policy early in the programme for Government. I appreciate the contributions made in the House last night.

The issue of small rural schools is an important one which warrants a debate in some shape or form. Education ensures people have equal opportunities and the best possible chances. Early intervention is crucial in this regard. While I do not have all the answers, a debate on education similar to the debate on disability last night and job creation last week could generate ideas which would benefit the formation of educational policy in government.