James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

Educate Together celebrated its 30th anniversary last week. The President attended and she was very encouraging to the organisation. I want to address the same point raised by Deputy Costello. I am concerned there is no legislation among the Bills proposed by the Government which would allow Educate Together to become a patron of secondary schools. In the past 30 years, it has proven itself to be an excellent educator and I am deeply concerned at the Government's attitude. A Minister was present in Balbriggan this morning but would not sign a petition.

See this speech in context