Vol. 565 No. 2
46 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the recent criticism of the Irish education system made by a person (details supplied) and their call for a fundamental review of policy priorities; his views on the comments made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10190/03]
I assume the Deputy is referring to a speech made by Mr. Sean Dorgan, Chief Executive of IDA Ireland, at a meeting in Dublin of education chief executive officers from OECD countries. Mr. Dorgan's theme was the challenges ahead for education systems and education chief executive officers. A central element of his presentation was that in the context of globalisation, competition and changing skills needs, education systems must reach out and connect with the national and international social and economic environments in which they operate. Education must respond to the needs of society and the economy if it is to serve the needs of people. I agree with Mr. Dorgan on this approach. It is, and has been for some time, central to the Government's policy on education.
