Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)

I am only here delivering the reply from the Minister but, as an avid GAA man myself, unfortunately I have come across these cases. I came across a case where a young person collapsed on the pitch and the ambulance could not even get in with how the barrier came across at the gate. It was terrible to see what happened that day. I agree with the Senator and I hope the Minister and the officials within the Department will listen to what he has to say. I know he is passionate on this issue. As I said, I am an avid GAA supporter and, unfortunately, a lot of these cases occur at pitches where children are involved in sports activities. I do not know how much it would cost to screen people or how a scheme can be implemented but I am sure we would learn from a pilot scheme and could build on it. I will bring this matter to the attention of the Minister. I hope that the officials are watching and listening. Perhaps they will listen to the Senator and put something in place. Screening would be worthwhile even if it saved one life and I am sure it would save a lot of lives. I again thank the Senator for bringing this matter to our attention.