Jim D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

I am not going into the jobs initiative. That was not a particularly helpful intervention from Senator Power.

This motion proposes no alternatives. However, I always acknowledge, as I did yesterday, Fianna Fáil's education spokespersons' often constructive approach to education legislation and their helpful suggestions for amendments. The Government amendment to the motion acknowledges the plans set out by the Government in budget 2012 form an important step in returning Ireland's economy to a sound footing and regaining our economic sovereignty.