Funding for further education and training has been cut by approximately €40 million. In my own area under the Louth and Meath Education and Training Board, the funding cut is in the region of €14 million. That is very significant and will have an impact on apprenticeships and further education courses. They will be delayed, postponed or cancelled. We have also been contacted by adult education teachers who are already dreadfully treated. They are being told they will not have jobs in September. They will be protesting about this outside the Dáil next Wednesday at 1 p.m. Does this concern the Minister at a time when we need apprenticeships and tradespeople? What will he do to ensure this funding is restored and these courses and jobs are protected?

Funding for apprenticeships is increasing. Funding for higher and further education has increased as well. The Minister, Deputy Lawless, is committed to this. He is doing important work in this area. We have seen in recent years the funding we are making available has been prioritised particularly for those who need to retrain and want to move into parts of our economy where we need additional skills. I know the overall picture is one in which the funding for this work has been increased.

I am not aware of the specific and important matter the Deputy raised regarding funding for ETBs and for those involved in adult education. However, I am sure the Minister is aware of this, and I will make sure he is aware of this exchange in advance of the protest next week mentioned by the Deputy.