I want to tell the Tánaiste about a young boy from Navan in County Meath called Conor Jordan, who is six years old. In November of 2016, his parents were given the news that Conor has autism. Conor has had many obstacles thrown at him but his parents, Louise and Declan, said he has made much progress since starting school. This fun-loving child makes them laugh and smile every single day.

Last year, Conor was partnered with a canine friend called Koby. Koby is not just any dog; he is a canine companion that will be trained over the coming months to protect Conor and make his everyday life safe. Koby is also a family dog and he will be part of the Jordan family. It will give Conor's parents great satisfaction knowing that when their son is older, Koby will keep him safe. The canine companion does not come cheap.

The Deputy might ask the question at this point.

It costs €10,000 to train a canine companion. As they do not receive any State funding, families go through the burden of trying to raise costs through GoFundMe pages. Were it not for the help of family and friends, we would see these beautiful kids growing up without a companion.

I ask the Tánaiste to consider funding for the likes of My Canine Companion and other organisations that do great work so families do not have the burden of raising the money.

I thank Deputy Guirke for telling me about Conor Jordan and the difference that companion dog has made in his life. I have seen that with people who have been provided with a companion dog and the amazing difference it can make. I am not sure what the situation is regarding Government funding for those organisations but I am happy to check it out and see if there is something we can do.