Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

I thank the witnesses and ask them to give our best regards to Ms Tanya Ward if she does not make it to the committee. The alliance's work over the years has made a positive contribution to the area of children and equality and I am very grateful for all of that work.

I want to ask the witnesses about the recommendations on national play and recreation policy. I agree with the alliance that we need a new strategy and policy on the importance of play. However, I was struck that the alliance did not mention after-school care for those of school age in its contribution. The alliance's opening statement is one of the best I have received because it is so thorough. The statement refers to a focus on the need for green spaces and recreational facilities, combined with a review of what currently exists at local authority level, which should be a key area of focus in the plan. I ask the alliance to discuss what needs to happen in after-school services. We do not have enough after-school facilities in our communities. The quickest way to provide that is through school buildings.

The witnesses will probably be aware that boards of management can stop access to those buildings. It is within their power. Another issue with after-school care is that it is not as simple as moving the tables out of the way and expecting that to become the best form of care. Play is important in after-school childcare provision. Has the Children's Rights Alliance done work in that area? What would it like to see? I expect it to be about facilities as well as the approach.