Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Like all other measures, we will have to weigh up its impact on outcomes. I am totally focussed on outcomes. I wish to pursue measures which lead to children doing better. The Senator's request is quite substantial. As I stated, I granted two to four extra days this year. Senator Gallagher requests an additional seven to 19 days, which would be a significant step up from what we have been able to do. In considering such provision, we must assess the impact of €12 million being spent in this way compared to the impact it would have on the many other areas for which we receive similarly passionate demands for investment. The ultimate arbiter must be whether children will do better as a result. I acknowledge that it is an inexact science and one must make choices but I will consider each proposal with that objective in mind.