Before I start, a Cheann Comhairle, you might allow me to congratulate Tina Marie Barrett on securing a school place for her child, Michael Joseph, for this coming September. Following 16 rejection letters and the matter being raised here a number of times, he has secured a place.

Sentiment score: 0.32

Thank you. There is a serious shortage of bus drivers in this country, yet we continue to insist on an ageist policy on this issue. Drivers over 70 years of age are not allowed to drive school buses, yet these same drivers can drive a bus to the school, pick up students and take them to a football match, a swimming lesson or a school tour. The policy makes no sense. Age is no barrier to employment, whether it be as a TD or a bus driver. I am 74 years of age, and my colleague on the Government benches, Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher, is two years my senior. I am sure, and indeed I hope, that no one would suggest we are not capable of doing our jobs. This issue has been raised a number of times in the Chamber and I ask that it be dealt with seriously and urgently.

Sentiment score: -0.07