The programme for Government states we should use our strengthened economy to become a leader in the provision of world-class education and skills. Members of Carlow Institute of Technology students’ union, along with staff, staged a walkout in recent weeks calling on the Government to invest in the future of higher education. They did so to raise awareness about the key issues facing students today. Ireland will have the highest third level fees in the EU after Brexit. Will the Taoiseach outline the Government’s plans to address these key issues? Will it take a more active role in engaging with students’ unions?

I am afraid the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy McHugh, and the Minister of State, Deputy Mitchell O’Connor, are not here. I will advise them that the Deputy raised this issue and ask them to provide him with a reply as soon as possible.