Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)

When we speak of children who are left on the side of the road, acknowledging there are issues we need to address, I emphasise to the Dáil that nearly 180,000 families and their children get support and the service they need through this scheme. This is at an overall cost to the taxpayer of more than €0.5 billion in recognition of the issues raised by Deputy Collins today and raised often by Deputies on this side of the House.

Regarding his particular point on age, I assure him that assessment is being carried out by the appropriate body, which is the Road Safety Authority. It is entirely correct that the issue be assessed from a safety perspective, which the authority is doing. One way or another, the matter will come to a conclusion. I will make sure the Ministers for Transport and education are aware this issue has been raised. It has been going on for some time. The Road Safety Authority is the right body to make a final conclusion and we will be informed by its recommendation on the matter.

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