A section of the programme for Government deals with the reform of third level education, but the first attempt at this has been a disaster. There are huge waiting lists and backlogs for approval of student grants. This has led to a situation where students are being threatened with their back-to-education allowance being cut off and with not being allowed to use information technology, IT, services in third level colleges. Will the Taoiseach allocate time for a full debate on the ridiculous situation that has arisen as a result of the centralisation of third level education grants?

That matter can be dealt with in a Topical Issue debate. If the Deputy submits a Topical Issue matter, I will consider it.

The matter is covered in the programme for Government. The Taoiseach must be aware of the difficulties that have arisen and he could surely allow a discussion on it in the House.

You can have a debate on it, but not on the Order of Business.

Will the Taoiseach allocate time for a debate on it?

Ask your Whip. The Whips can discuss it at their meeting.

It is effectively the Government Whip who decides.