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THE OIREACHTAS EDUCATION Committee had to delay its hearing on sex ed this afternoon because it didn’t have enough senators present.
The session, which was due to start at 3.30pm today, had only four TDs present out of 15 members: Thomas Byrne (FF), Fiona O’Loughlin (FF), Jan O’Sullivan (Labour) and Kathleen Funchion (SF).
If the quorum is not reached after 15 minutes of waiting a hearing is usually rescheduled for another time, but an obscure rule was used to prolong the wait.
In this time, it’s understood that Senator Paul Daly of Fianna Fáil was contacted and was able to attend the committee hearing.
All members of both Houses are entitled to attend hearings and may take an active part in the meeting, but may not vote or move motions or amendments.
A number of speakers were due to give evidence to the committee including Cliona Sadlier of the Rape Crisis Network Ireland.
Although the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre gave a submission on sex ed to the committee, they were not invited to give evidence today.
There’s been a focus on Ireland’s sex ed curriculum in the context of Ireland’s debate on abortion; particularly around the use of contraception, and the teaching of consent in schools.
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RIP kevin we can learn a lot of t from you we should all support Lauralynn and the work they do for kids like kevin and there families Never met you kevin but you have touched me
What a lovely mum you are Mairead. That was so moving. I wish you and yours all the best.
Hats off to you Mairead and Chuck. He’s left a great legacy behind
Ah Mairead I’m in tears after that. Respect to you and Kevin.
What a very special family
Good piece. Great looking kid, all the best
Great piece Mairead. We remember & talk of Kevin often.
He looked so joyful
Beautiful piece Mairead. RIP Kevin.
Lovely piece Mairead from the heart. Know Kevin from Eithne. Hope Chuck and you get strength from Kevin to move on. Bless.
What a beautiful boy…A lovely photo.thank you for sharing Kevin with us…words escape me, my sadness for u all..Thankfully Lauralyn gave u many happy memories. Bless u all.
Beautifully written Mairead. Hugs to you and the family x
Beautiful Mairead, smiled with a tear in my eye reading this and remembering Kevvy D. X
Chuck and family a lovely tribute and a lasting legacy
A little angel be good little man
What a beautifully written piece. I would love to have met the little fella. I’m sure he would have stolen my heart. May you have peace and closure from your terrible loss. I’m very moved by the story of Wee Kevin.
Kevin could only inspire because he was a chip of the two auld blocks.
Jarleth, Mairead, and family, ordinary heroes, doing extraordinary things.
Loved the article Mairead, there’s a writer there lost in you.
Marty Daly
Thanks Chuck, Maireid and your lovely family for you generosity in sharing Kevin’s story and his smile with us. For many I am sure, it will offer inspiration and possibly comfort and to most of us a gentle reality check.
Lovely piece Mairead, full of joy and love
So very sad reading this Mairead & Chuck, remembering our meeting in 2004 & what a beautiful kind and supportive family you were to us when it was so badly needed and you still managed the strength to share it with us even though you probably should have been selfish and saved it for your own family. RIP beautiful Kevin will never forget that beautiful smile. Thinking of you & will call soon.
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