Annie Hoey (Labour) | Oireachtas source

It is disappointing that the amendment has been included in the Bill. I reiterate the Labour Party's support for the foundation of the Department of further and higher education, research, innovation and science, recognising that learning needs to be a continuum from early years through lifelong and adult learning, so it is disappointing the amendment is included. The previous two speakers have outlined very succinctly and clearly our reasons for opposing the amendment, the inappropriateness of it at this time recognising the economic climate we are in, and looking outwards to the optics of this and what we are saying to people. I will not labour the point but it is disappointing it has been included. We support the formation of the Department but we will not support the amendment.