Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was concerned yesterday to hear that a survey from Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind seems to show an increase in guide dog users being refused entrance to pubs, restaurants and, which is even more concerning, medical facilities. It is the law that somebody who uses a guide dog must have access to all public and private buildings. Unfortunately, that seems to be an issue. I ask the Leader to write to the Minister for Justice to see whether there is any way of strengthening the laws by increasing the fines or at least creating a structure of fines such that when access is refused, there is a punishment and a comeback.

Last Friday morning, I attended the launch at St. Brendan's College, Killarney, of Vision Sports Ireland's toolkit to assist PE teachers in helping blind and visually impaired students to become more physically active. David Clifford and young Michael O'Brien were there to do the launch with me. It was a very special day. What impressed me most was the inclusivity of St. Brendan's College, which is famous for producing serious GAA footballers over the years, with David Clifford being the current PE teacher. The school does not just offer Gaelic sports. There is a wealth of other sports and activities, with everything from handball to wall climbing to drama on offer. The ethos of the school is just phenomenal. I was seriously impressed. It is a model that should be used in all community schools throughout the country. I pay tribute to the principal, Sean Coffey, and his fantastic group of teachers for how the ethos of the school is so inclusive to everybody, thereby ensuring every young person achieves his or her potential, whether in acting, sport, academia or apprenticeships. It is a model for schools throughout the country and I wish everybody there all the best for the future.