Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

All I can say is that it is a small grant that makes a big difference in communities. Deputy Griffin is right that it would take a long time to raise €50,000. In this regard, I learned a lesson many years ago when a community group got what was a very small grant in the overall scheme of things. It might have been €10,000, or not even that much. Those concerned rang me up and said to me they would be standing a long time at the traffic lights in Monaghan before they would collect €10,000 in the bucket. It goes to show how important small grants can be. We can talk about millions and billions but those grants make a real difference to people's lives.

I take on board the point on Castletownbere. I believe I was there with Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan on my last trip to Cork. There was fine weather in the summertime. I have to go back.

On the issue on safety at schools, there was a relevant scheme under CLÁR. Many schools got flashing lights through the CLÁR scheme. Schools need to engage with the local authorities as it is a roads issue. However, if we can help in any way, of course we will. It is important that our children be kept safe.

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