Aideen Hayden (Labour)

I ask the Leader to ask the Minister, who I congratulate on his speedy response in acknowledging that legislation is required in this regard, to go further. The provision of education to pregnant girls or young mothers is not simply a matter in respect of enrolment, but also pertains to their entire schooling. The type of treatment to be received by a pregnant girl or indeed by someone who has had a baby, while enrolled - not necessarily while attempting to be enrolled - should not be a matter that is subject to the grace and favour of the individual school concerned. Instead, it should be a matter of public policy. I call on the Minister to extend his investigation of this matter to all publicly-funded schools nationwide in order to ascertain the types of facilities and supports that are in place for young pregnant mothers and the young mothers of this country.