Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank all of the witnesses. I agree with the Chairman that the contributions from Ms Keegan and Mr. Moran gave us a real sense of the personal development that is involved in scouting. This is the first time they have appeared before an Oireachtas committee. We want to ensure that their appearance here is a positive one in terms of what the committee ask of them.

Mr. Lawlor referred to the World Scout Moot which is to be held here in 2021 and that he wants to use that as a platform for transformation and development in Irish scouting. He is seeking our support for that programme. Can Mr. Lawlor tell the committee how we can support Scouting Ireland in that?

Scouting is clearly a very positive movement of which we are all personally aware in our local areas. The boat-building project in Limerick city is one very positive example. The last time I met Mr. McCann was on the banks of the Shannon in regard to an outdoor development for one of the local troops in Limerick.

I note that the percentage of the population reached by scouting is 5%. It is growing but it would be good to be able to spread the benefits even wider. To have 12,000 volunteers is very impressive. The witnesses said that there are waiting lists. What are the obstacles to growing in terms of granting access to those on waiting lists and those who have not had the opportunity to engage with a local scouting group?

The witnesses have made us aware of the challenges Brexit poses for Scouting Ireland and probably other voluntary organisations as well. I am particularly familiar with the ERASMUS programme. People in Northern Ireland will possibly have difficulty accessing it. Brexit will cause many difficulties. What can the committee do to support the witnesses in their work, particularly in the context of this transformational programme?