Mr. Bernard Joyce:

I believe that schools are a microcosm of society but moving beyond the school walls, the Yellow Flag programme - and the 33,000 young people going through it - is in itself an example of changes in mindsets and attitudes, and it acknowledges the difference in society while recognising the uniqueness of each and every child within the school walls. That, however, is not enough. Going beyond that it must change the teachers who teach. They are the role models within the schools in the classrooms. If they come with certain views and preconceived ideas it can have a significant knock-on effect on young people's expectations and achievements.

As of 2 November, the Irish Traveller Movement is developing what is probably the first national strategy for young Travellers. It is about looking at their needs. We want to hear their voices. As recently as this month, there was a discussion involving young Travellers in County Offaly whose ages ranged from 14 to 21 years. They raised a number of issues.