Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With the CLÁR programme one of the better schemes that I oversaw was the safety scheme for outside schools. It is an important scheme. We have supported many schools throughout the country. We have made schools safer with signage, access and car parking. If there is a specific case, Deputy Smyth may take it up with me.

I am satisfied with the CLÁR programme. At this stage, I need to look at more areas where I can identify a need to bring in schemes and then deal with that need. One example from this year relates to cancer services. It applies especially in rural areas where people have to go long distances to get to cancer services. I helped to support some transport providers to make it easier for cancer patients to get to and from hospitals.

That is why I identified the schools schemes that were in place previously. It is one of the better schemes and it works well. Safety outside schools is important. I will do a total review of the CLÁR programme. What I would like – this is more difficult - is to have more money for the CLÁR programme, but that is an issue I have to fight at Government level.

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