Mr. Jim Gibson:

I have highlighted in the written statement to the Oireachtas how we view the interim measure of hubs as a valuable step in the right direction. It grounds children and families in a place where we can ensure that, from a support and helping perspective, they continue to have connection with their community and we can arrange schooling. One good initiative was the Leap card for families who are homeless to help the children to get to school. The educational welfare service negotiates with schools on different starting and leaving times. We also accommodate parents who bring children so they are not standing outside the gate.

They should have somewhere comfortable to wait for their children as that wait might be for an hour or so. We are clear that hubs are a worthwhile interim measure that allow us to provide stability to families and to create the pathways to the universal services any family requires, including primary care within the HSE and co-ordinated family support services in the community.