Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the Minister of State's recognition of the issue, particularly regarding Bandon grammar school. The trustees of that school have stated that there will be no fees for any student who attends the unit. Reference is made to being open to all and that is exactly what the trustees have done in stating that no fee will be applicable. Taking the sustainability issue into account, there is a real issue for the people of west Cork. This is a unique issue and people there feel discriminated against in many ways. They are doing the right thing in stepping up and stating that the unit is needed. Can people imagine what would have happened if they had stated that they did not want the unit? What kind of uproar would there have been? These people have instead put their hands up and affirmed that they want to be part of an inclusive society, they want to do the right thing and, therefore, the fee will be waived. They are now asking if we will work with them. I welcome the acknowledgement of the issue by the Minister of State and I am hopeful that the Minister will answer and correspond appropriately with the school. This is a major issue for the part of west Cork I represent and a significant issue for all sections of society.