When will all the elements of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 be enacted to ensure that it will be compulsory for all early years settings to facilitate children with special educational needs?

The National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012 was passed by the Houses of the Oireachtas almost two years ago but it has yet to be commenced. Can the Taoiseach indicate when it will be commenced?

The legislation on aftercare has not yet been published, while the Children First Bill has only reached Committee Stage. Despite the Government's promise to complete the legislation when it assumed office four and a half years ago, we are still awaiting a timeframe for debating and improving this much watered-down Bill.

I remember asking questions many years ago about elements of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act which had not yet been commenced. I will revert to Deputy Troy on the matter.

In respect of the vetting legislation, some of the relevant measures are being incorporated in the spent convictions Bill, which is being prepared. I will advise Deputy Troy later of the current state of progress with the Bill.

What is the position with regard to the after care legislation and Children First Bill?

The Children First Bill is still going through the House and is on Report Stage.