David Norris (Independent)

I would be interested in the Minister's reply as the question of hiring retired teachers has been raised previously. As someone involved in the teaching profession, I know it is important to give people a chance. I heard this matter being discussed on the wireless and the point was made that the hiring policy would only operate for a short period, and a change might not be of any significant advantage to young people. On the other hand, any experience is beneficial and I am very happy to support Senator Power's amendment for that reason. It is important to give young people an opportunity and prevent them from having to go abroad to seek work. It is tragic that young people involved in so many professions now, including teaching, nursing and so on, should have to go abroad. They would have received a very good education in the State, at least partially at the taxpayers' expense. If the amendment looks to have the desired effect, I ask the Minister to consider it positively.