Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with the Minister of State that early intervention is definitely the best approach. As a comparison, one day I had a chat with Mr. Antonio Conte, the manager of Juventus. I asked him why there was such a big difference between the technical ability of the Italians and players in Ireland and England. He said it was down to what the Italians do with the players between the ages of six and 12. I would argue that does not stop us working with the players in footballing terms as teenagers. From speaking with the principal, I know that the school in Gorey is under severe pressure for guidance and help in this area. In the past week alone a number of students have presented with suicidal ideation. They are really worried and without taking away from the early intervention principle, which is clearly the best, I believe schools need more help right now.

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