They can be grouped with other priority questions but not with other oral questions.

I am happy with that.

I acknowledge the Deputy's comments on Mick O'Dwyer. I had a personal involvement with him in Wicklow GAA. I was sponsor and he was manager. He was one of the most amazing characters I have ever come across. The legacy he has left the GAA world is priceless.

We will move on please.

I welcome the programme for Government proposals that we ensure Irish Water prioritises the delivery of the small towns and villages programme. What I am concerned about is that this is not being fed down to Irish Water. Take Aughrim in County Wicklow, for example. No housing developments have been built in more than a decade due to the water plant being at full capacity. Recent correspondence with Irish Water stated clearly that the project is currently not forecasted to progress to construction until 2029. If thi…

I seek an update on the progress of the Gorey primary care centre which was first proposed in 2010 and is yet again back on the drawing board. Gorey is a thriving and fast-growing town with a population of more than 35,000 when Courtown and Riverchapel are included, but at the moment it is almost impossible to register with the GP or dentist. I welcome the programme for Government which clearly states this Government will open more primary care centres. However, the current operating lease model proposal on the tab…

I refer to a number of pressing issues relating to capital investment in schools in my constituency both in the provision of new buildings and upgrading of existing buildings. I commend the Department on the continuous roll-out of hot meals and free books. I welcome the commitment in the programme for Government to increased facilities for children with additional needs by establishing either new special schools or special educational classes to ensure children with additional needs get the support and resources th…

I thank the Minister of State for his response. I warmly welcome the word "engagement". That is so important for the key stakeholders, especially the principals of the schools. No doubt these issues are being replicated in many schools. I have to say that the initial response from the Minister and her Department has been very positive and engaging. Simply, joined-up thinking is needed in many of these situations and there is a need for common sense. To build a school for 1,000 students without a playground is simpl…

The programme for Government reiterates the intention to continue the development of greenways and cycle routes across Ireland, which I warmly welcome. Greenways have simply transformed rural communities throughout Ireland. However, I want to flag a concern following a decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission to Blessington greenway due to wildlife and environmental concerns. If roadblocks such as these continue, I honestly fear for the future of greenways. I would like a reassurance that this will be addr…

I would like to re-emphasise how important it is that we have access to our countryside and our greenways.

It would be remiss of me to start without thanking my team in Wexford-Wicklow for putting me in this honourable position. I would like to thank my wife, Michelle, and my children, Seán and Mia. I would also like to thank the incredible support I got from my team in north Wexford and south Wicklow. I look forward to representing the constituency right across the board. I have to mention the town of Arklow, because for so long it never had any representation at national level and I will ensure I correct that fact. Re…