Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. It is rather interesting that earlier he seemed to suggest that those who pursue further education are somehow creating a financial difficulty in the context of Tusla's resources because their continuing in full-time education is taking away resources from those who are not doing so. It seems a rather strange definition of care if somebody wishes to pursue education and is under the care of Tusla. The Minister might also clarify his statement that there was a statutory obligation. My understanding is that there was no statutory obligation under the Child Care Act. According to the wording contained in the analysis, "where a child leaves the care of a health board, the HSE can assist.". However, it does not say that the executive must do so. The Minister said the practicalities were that it did not assist, yet he is changing the legislation. He has also indicated - he should please correct me if I am wrong in my interpretation - that Tusla will be flexible in its approach to those over the age of 23 who are in full-time education. The Bill, however, refers to the end of the academic year during which the person turns 23, whichever is the earlier. Which is it? Is age 23 written in stone or is there flexibility in the system to allow those in full-time education to pursue it with the help and assistance of Tusla?