Like Senator Bacik, I welcome the report compiled by the Department of Education and Skills on retention rates for pupils in second level schools. This country has fantastic retention rates in comparison to its European counterparts, particularly its nearest neighbour Britain. We should remember the strength and quality of our education system. Retention rates are increasing all the time. In the current economic climate, it is most important that we should continue to educate young children. Kilkenny has the highest retention rate in the country at 94%.

The county is not just good at hurling.

I could not believe the rate was so high. Sligo is next and then Waterford, county and city. Retention rates in Border counties, including that in which I live, Louth, are generally lower than the national average but I am pleased by the fact that the report shows them to be increasing all the time.

As Senator Bacik said, we must look at the good aspects of education when debating it. It is traumatic for students to be waiting for their grants to be paid. I know from experience that some of them will be able to survive until Christmas but it is tough on them if grants are delayed until after Christmas. The new system must be given a chance. However, I ask that SUSI pulls out all the stops in order to support students.