Pearse Doherty (Sinn Fein)

I asked a question on the legal evidence, as the Minister referred to legal advice on the scheme introduced for those aged 18 and 19. Have we got legal advice on this? In my view we are discriminating against those under 25 so have we advice that this is completely constitutional? This is an example of ageism.

The Minister's answer is technically correct but it still does not bring about equality. In my example, the brother losing his job before Christmas does not have to go into training. A difference is being created in this legislation for people in a younger age group and the way the State treats them, despite being in the same position as those in an older age group. Has the Minister sought legal advice on this and if so, what was the advice?