Marie Moloney (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I second what Senator Mooney said about the tobacco industry and the pressure it is putting on the Government.It is a disgrace to be honest. I heard them on radio today saying they were not selling any less cigarettes so I do not see what their problem is.

I welcome the announcement made today by the Minister for Education and Skills about the new policy for retaining small schools, particularly in isolated areas. I know about the matter because where I come from, in south Kerry, a number of small schools are in danger of losing a teacher and some of them are in danger of closing. I am delighted to welcome the Minister's news today. I have circulated her announcement to the schools in question and await their comments. I hope their comments will be favourable. A small school is the heart of any community. Many of us attended small schools and they were places of learning. We are very proud of rural schools and we would like to keep open as many of them as possible.