Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I sincerely congratulate all the groups that were successful in the TidyTowns competition, the results of which were announced yesterday by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Ring. It is wonderful to see so many volunteers and committees that work tirelessly throughout the year to improve our local surroundings. It is important they are recognised for their work. Many volunteers give much energy, time, commitment and dedication to ensuring that our villages and towns look good, and give residents and visitors a sense of pride of place. It is very positive to see many towns and villages - not just the winners - improve in respect of the marks they were awarded. I congratulate all the groups throughout County Roscommon and east County Galway that were successful and have improved. It is important that TidyTowns groups be supported and it is positive that the Minister has allocated a further €1.4 million to support their work, which is not just about flower arrangements. There is a strong focus on recycling and biodiversity and TidyTowns groups constantly strive to do better in all the categories each year.

It is positive that the subject of history will be given special status in the junior cycle.As we have heard, that decision was made by the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy McHugh, this morning. History is a very important subject for students. It allows them to learn valuable lessons from our past and to ensure further mistakes are not made. We are living history at the moment in respect of the challenges surrounding Brexit. It is important for students to learn from our past. We must ensure important lessons are taught and that we move in a better direction.