I asked the previous Minister for Education and Skills whether he thought officials in the Department or teachers were the greater experts. He conceded that teachers were the greater experts, although he rightly considered himself a political expert as Minister for Education and Skills. As many myths have grown up around the strike, I will reiterate the truth about it to the Seanad today, without interruption from my colleagues in Fine Gael. External examination is the key to the standard of how all students regard the junior certificate examination. It is the key to how all students believe in it. It is the truth of the external examination they want maintained, with the aspect of the external examination that remains above reproach. They want the human objectivity of the external examination maintained, with the idea that the process is conducted at national arm's length. The teachers are not against creativity, imagination, project work or advanced technology in arts, literature or music. They just want these to be externally examined. There are myths growing up around this on television and radio. The Minister is not arguing the point when she speaks about reform. Of course, we must have reform, which we have every day of the week in Montessori and at middle, second and third level. There must be external examination and in this instance, the teachers are correct. The Minister facilitated us last week with an Adjournment debate on the issue, but I would like her to answer on what she intends to do now. The matter is not going away and in this instance, the teachers are correct.

I congratulate all those involved in Galway on its recent designation as UNESCO city of film. It is wonderful news not only for the people of Galway but for the country, as it is the first time an Irish city has received the designation of UNESCO city of film.

It is one of only five worldwide and is granted on a permanent basis. This is lasting recognition for all those people and organisations involved to ensure Galway is a premier location for the arts in Ireland. People such as Declan Gibbons, Lelia Doolan, Jenny Dagg and many others, including Galway city and county councils, are to be commended for their excellent work in submitting this bid. It is estimated that the film and television industry in Galway supports in excess of 600 jobs and is worth more than €72 million to the local economy. Galway's cultural tradition and the potential for a sustainable long-term development were key factors in it achieving the UNESCO city of film designation. I have no doubt that the award will help Galway's international profile as a major artistic hub and help it strengthen its bid for the 2020 European Capital of Culture.