Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 93: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has examined fully the major role of the educational system in the future of the economy with particular reference to the need to ensure that budgetary cuts do not permanently undermine the concept of investment in this vital sector; if she will ensure that the needs of primary, second and third level pupils and students are kept to the fore and that the requirements of schools catering for children with special needs are adequately provided for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41381/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy will appreciate that the preparation of the Budget is carried out on a strictly confidential basis and as a result it would not be appropriate for me to comment on specific matters in advance of the formal announcements involved. The Government has made it clear that difficult budgetary decisions will be necessary across the broad spectrum of public expenditure in order to secure the significant level of savings required. This will obviously impact on all sectors of public expenditure, including the education sector. The Government will, however, seek to ensure that the necessary savings are achieved in a fair and equitable way, and that the important role of the education system in the future of the economy is recognised.