I raise the issue of children with additional needs in relation to physical and mental abuse in educational settings. One new group that was recently established to address the issue had 87 families join in one week. The most vulnerable group of children are in these settings. One comment struck me. It said, "You can't speak. There's no law to protect you." These children and young people have been let down and schools and teachers have also been let down with little or no multidisciplinary service. I ask the Taoiseach to ensure that there is an external investigation into these allegations. Will he commit to ensuring that their voices are heard?

I thank the Deputy for his question. It is critical that all children are treated equally, humanely and with respect and compassion, particularly children with additional needs. Any child protection issues should be referred to Tusla and the Garda. I will bring the Deputy's comments to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Foley, under whose remit these issues lie and also to the inspectorate.