Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle and her team for allowing both of us to contribute on these Topical Issue matter tonight. I also thank the Cathaoirleach Gníomhach for his latitude. I also appealing to the Minister of State regarding this issue. I have many question about Tusla and its operations. This facility we are talking about has been renowned for half a century and more. The Dolphin Swimming Club and many others have done tremendous work there. The two issues we are bringing to the floor of the Dáil tonight issues concerning people with certain disabilities and from vulnerable backgrounds. If we are to be any good to ourselves and our constituents, then these are the very people we have to look after. They need that support.

I want to see the report Tusla is saying it has. We have been told this is about an electrical problem. A full report, however, is supposed to have been done but it has not been published. It has not been given to anyone. Frankly, I do not actually believe the situation here. It is a contrived issue to try to remove all activities from Ferryhouse and to allow more and more offices for Tusla. It is not acceptable. This is a facility that has looked after deprived children for more than half a century. The Brothers were there first and then the staff, and they did a wonderful job. We need honest answers. Why is Tusla taking over this property? I have other calls to make this property into a special needs education facility for County Tipperary but this is not the topic we are discussing tonight. We are talking about the Dolphin Swimming Club and the jobs and employment. More importantly, this is about the children using the swimming pool - including young adults and everyone - and learning to swim. I brought my own kids there when I was young. We are asking the Minister of State to please intervene.

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