I raise again the issue of STEM funding for the engagement officer in County Laois and concerns for the future of STEM education programmes. The last time I raised this matter in the Chamber, the Leader told me to submit a Commencement matter. I have done so three times and three times a Minister has refused to come into this Chamber to address why this STEM funding is being discontinued and what we are going to do about replacing it. This is really important, not just in rural schools but in urban schools as well.

Education is not just about academics and sport; it is also about other curriculum activities. Some children do not engage with sports and there are all of these other fantastic opportunities out there. This funding has been in place, and the STEM engagement officer has been coming into schools and helping children. I have spoken about the success of Rosenallis National School so many times in this Chamber and its students winning the VEX Robotics competition in Missouri. That is absolutely fantastic. The same goes for the Swan National School, which is a 29-pupil school. The schools are going to be absolutely devastated by this loss. I am furious that I have submitted a Commencement matter on this three times and I have been refused each time. I ask Leader to call on the Minister to give me an answer because I am not giving up on this. It is not acceptable that a Senator would submit a Commencement matter three times and still not have an answer. This funding and role are due to end on 23 June and I need to go back to these principals and local pupils to explain what is happening. I am hoping the Leader can get me an update or I will be in here next week raising it again.