Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

That is really important because this is a very emotive subject. Some people hold very strong opinions and there are some who do not even understand it. I am thinking of parents on the sidelines, coaches and so on. They are involved in a voluntary capacity but are running into all of these issues.

Regarding taekwondo and martial arts more generally in Wexford, these activities are particularly suited to those who are on the autism spectrum. They are very disciplined sports and they seem to be something that those with autism can evolve in. I have been there and watched them and it is fantastic. These are really disciplined sports but we have not expanded them enough and explored how they can be accessed by all. I would really appreciate it if Dr. May would elaborate on that. I also ask her to furnish us with a copy of the Sport Ireland report on schoolgirls, all-girl schools and the drop-out rate.

Finally, on the criteria that will be used for providing the grant for disadvantaged areas, I ask her to take what I have said into account. Everyone is going to tell her that they are operating a food cloud in a small village but the south New Ross area of County Wexford has a population of between 5,000 and 10,000. There is probably room for more but I ask her to consider that.