Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join the Deputy in again expressing our sympathy to the families who so tragically lost loved ones on this day last year.

To reply to the Deputy's question about St. Augustine's special school, it was the subject of a Topical Issue discussed in the Dáil, I believe, only two days ago. The Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, is examining the matter. European funds were in place for the initiatives being undertaken at St. Augustine's special school. The Minister of State is meeting the parents and other relevant individuals to explore what action can be taken to ensure the continuation of the services provided.

On the Brexit debate, our focus at this point is very much on Ministers who have travelled to the United Kingdom, including the North. Opposition leaders have also done so. We are focusing very much on Ireland's interests and how much they would be served by the United Kingdom remaining within the European Union. The Minister, Deputy Simon Coveney, will be in Belfast tomorrow. As the Deputy knows, the Taoiseach has several visits planned today. It is absolutely in Ireland's economic interests that there be a "Yes" vote to remain in the European Union.

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