Paul Daly (Fianna Fail)

We had statements on higher education yesterday evening. We have a lot of debate here. The franchise for the presidential election and allowing people in Northern Ireland to vote was mentioned this morning. We have heard a lot of talk of the shared island and unity polls down the line. What went somewhat under the radar, even during yesterday evening's discussions, was the announcement by the Irish and Northern Irish Governments of a joint, North-South, all-Ireland apprenticeship programme for the first time. When we have issues or problems in society, education can often be blamed as the root cause. However, it is certainly always rolled out as a solution to the problem. The argument is that education will eventually solve all problems. This is a major move that needs to be recognised and acknowledged. Both Governments need to be complimented. It is the way forward. Education will play a major role in the unification of our island. I formally welcome the announcement.