Dempsey under fire over cuts

EDUCATION Minister Noel Dempsey was accused yesterday of breaking his promise to help disadvantaged students by slashing €36 million from his department’s budget.

The bulk of the cuts will affect schemes aimed at early school leavers or adult education courses.

Yet, just a month ago, Minister Dempsey said the focus of his tenure would be on tackling disadvantage and looking after those whose voice was not being heard.