Mary Moran (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the budget. One cannot please all of the people all of the time but I believe last night's debate was very well rounded, particularly in the context of the areas for which I am a spokesperson, namely, education and disability. We have greatly improved. One of the most difficult things that occurred since I became a member of the Seanad was the cut to the respite care grant. I have lobbied to have it restored to the full amount of €1,700 and I am delighted that this will be done on foot of the budget. I am also thrilled that €15 million in funding has been provided to facilitate full participation by children with disabilities in the child care scheme. This initiative will really improve access to education for children with disabilities. There is no doubt they should have such access. It was also good to see in the announcement yesterday that there will be a reduction in the pupil-teacher ratios which obtain in primary and post-primary schools. From speaking with school principals in my own area, I know they are delighted with the announcement and also with the confirmation that the schools minor works scheme - the summer works grant - is to be paid in the coming weeks. We realise that this will be a long process but it is a step in the right direction. There will be an additional 2,260 teachers, including 550 posts to support improved guidance counselling, something we have all lobbied the Minister for. I welcome the news of 550 posts for improving managerial structures and guidance counselling. That is a great move. The Christmas bonus is going to be restored to 75% and there will be an increase in the State pension for the first time since 2009.