Martin Conway (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. It is important that schools are reminded of their responsibilities under the Education Act 1998. I come from a rural area four hours from Dublin and one hour from Galway and Limerick. Children going to school in cities and their commuter belts tend to be better informed. While teachers have expertise in their own fields, if the career guidance element ceases to be a priority, the broad church of knowledge which a career guidance teacher or counsellor is required to possess will be compromised.

I do not question the Minister's bona fides. Before the general election he told a Teachers Union of Ireland conference that the country was broke. He was right and we must repeat this every day. Like him, I am trying to achieve the fairest and best outcome for eveyone. I look forward to seeing his circular and its impact in due course.