The Dáil has tonight passed a Fianna Fáil private members motion, by a substantial margin, calling on the government to prioritise education and training in the forthcoming jobs budget. The motion was tabled by Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education and Skills Brendan Smith TD.

Deputy Smith commented, “Tonight’s vote proves the value of constructive opposition politics. This was not a typical partisan motion which has too often been the mainstay of private members’ debates in recent years. It was based around a core principle that education is central to our recovery and should receive priority when key spending decisions are made.

“This was the first time that the new Dáil debated the education sector. In supporting the Fianna Fáil motion, the government has supported our view that education and training is crucial to driving sustainable economic growth.

“As the lead party in opposition, it is up to Fianna Fáil to ensure that the Government takes forward the policies necessary to protect the country’s recovery. The result of tonight’s vote is strong evidence of our strong and constructive role in the policy making process.”