Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate my remarks to the Senator that it is an important course and I thank her for raising the matter. It is not a solace to the Senator but it is a matter for each individual board to take into account allocated budgets and engage with the different stakeholders. The Minister has no direct responsibility. I will bring the Senator's concerns to the Minister and the Department and ask them to reflect on the comments she has made this morning. It is an important course. There is significant investment by the Government in higher and continuing education. As a former director of adult education, I very much appreciate the remarks the Senator has made this morning about ensuring that learners get access to the course and are properly educated and trained. I will bring the Senator's concerns back to the Minister.