Ruairí Quinn was a dedicated and reforming Minister for Education

As Spokesperson for Education I would like to commend Minister Quinn for his tireless work as Minister for Education and Skills during difficult economic times.  Minister Quinn hit the ground running in his role and has forever changed the landscape of education in Ireland in just 3 short years.
 
He has not only provided dedication in his role as Minister but to his constituents of Dublin South East for many years as Councillor, Senator and TD.  
'I would like to thank my colleague for his work and dedication to the area of education.  He has been an excellent Minister to work with and his energy and vision will be greatly missed.  Minister Quinn has undertaken wide-ranging reforms and addressed important issues which have included pluralism and patronage, Junior Cycle reform, school costs, bullying, literacy and numeracy, creation of SOLAS, inclusive enrolment policies and too many more to list. He was a very receptive Minister who always provided a listening ear no matter how big or small the problem may have been.  
   
I would like to pay tribute  to his dedicated efforts over the last 40 years as a public representative and as a Labour Party member.  He has made an immeasurable contribution to our party and to public life.  I have the utmost respect for Minister Quinn and have enjoyed working with him over the last three years.  I am very sad to learn he has resigned his position but I would like to wish him the very best for the future.  His conviction, vision, creativity and ability to deliver will be greatly missed.