Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

I apologise for being late for the Order of Business. We could discuss traffic management in that regard.

I ask the Leader to consider arranging a debate on the safety of young people, given the widespread concerns that have been expressed about the reports of a paedophile ring. From what we have learned in the media, the matter seems extremely serious. Issues arise in respect of the vetting of public servants. The Garda vetting unit in Thurles needs additional resources. I urge the Leader to consider the issue as a matter of urgency and ask the Government how it will support parents to ensure their children are safe when visiting websites.

Due to technological advances, many parents, including young parents, will not be equipped with sufficient education and information to ensure they can guarantee the safety of their children. I ask the Minister and the Leader, a former Minister of Education, to consider the possibility of making available training courses for parents through schools to equip them with the requisite information to ensure that the Internet is not being used in such a manner that children's safety is being undermined. For the most part, it is a highly positive and useful tool.