Eileen Flynn (Independent)
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I know Deputies have already raised the issue of the Cork Life Centre but I have one question and would appreciate an answer. What is the commitment of the Minister and Department to the centre? We have seen the Ombudsman's report on the importance of the education centre and we have listened to the views of young people. That is my question on the Cork Life Centre.

My other question is on teacher diversity. Of course, we have got better over the years but how do we encourage children from marginalised communities, including disabled people and Traveller young people, to go into teaching as a profession? What special measures are being put in place?

Has the Department of Education considered this committee's recommendation with regard to the Barnardos Friendship Group and the Roots of Empathy programme in primary schools? Has any more consideration been given to that? As someone from the Traveller community, I know the real issues on the ground that are impacting on young Traveller children and children from ethnic minority groups when it comes to bullying and mental health. We are aware that €5 million was drawn down. That is a step in the right direction with regard to counselling and supports in primary schools. Is this only for some of our primary schools or will it be for all of our schools? Is it targeted at the most vulnerable children in society? We have to be very realistic and acknowledge that you are more likely to face bullying if you are overweight, from the Traveller community, a black or brown person or a refugee. It is really important we look at those special measures within our schools. I have asked some direct questions and would appreciate it if I could get some direct answers.