Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

I wish to raise again a matter I raised a couple of weeks ago, as I was not satisfied by the complete lack of response to it. I refer those schools which should have DEIS status but which do not, that is, those schools which did not meet the criteria in 2005 but that certainly would meet all the criteria now. These schools are experiencing the same cuts as any other school, which is particularly unfair. While I am not trying to open up a great can of worms or to run up a big bill for the Minister for Education and Skills, I keep hearing references in this Chamber to the relevance of the Seanad. In this context, Members might seek action on this issue on behalf of those children who will be most affected by the cuts. I do not refer to those schools that can take cuts and acknowledge there are schools that can take cuts and reductions. However, a number of schools can take nothing and I would like to think Members would support me on this matter. I acknowledge the Minister is highly likely to state that whatever cost might be incurred in this regard would have to be cost-neutral to the Department. Were this the case, I would support the Minister in this respect and would like to think other Senators would do likewise because there is a huge difference between those schools that simply cannot take any cuts and those which can. If the Minister gives Members a hearing and indicates he is prepared to bring to the table a programme to benefit those schools, Members should also be responsible. I cannot emphasise this issue enough and hope to raise this matter on the Adjournment next week with the consent of the Cathaoirleach. I wish to hear what the Minister has to say directly but depending upon the outcome, I hope to have the support of the Seanad. This would demonstrate the Seanad can make a real difference to those who most need it.