Mr. Eamonn Moran:

It is important to make the point that schools are required to teach all aspects of the RSE programme, including family planning, information on sexually transmitted infections and information on sexual orientation. Elements of the programme cover the issues of contraception and consent. As I said in my presentation:

Elements of the programme cannot be omitted on the grounds of school ethos. However, all aspects of the programme can and should be taught within the ethos and value system of a school.

For example, schools are required to teach the elements of the programme that relate to contraception. However, the schools, depending on their ethos might say, for example, in the context of the Catholic Church, we have a particular view on contraception. It is important for me to point out that there is a requirement for all elements of the programme to be delivered in the schools.

The Deputy mentioned external agencies so I ask my colleague, Ms Egan, to answer her questions.