asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to recent reports that over 300 young people who won the President's Award, Gaisce, are still waiting for their medals to be presented and to the expressed disappointment of some of the recipients and their parents; and if she will take immediate steps in the matter in order to ensure that it is rectified.
Written Answers. - President's Award Scheme.
73.
I am aware of the recent publicity in connection with the delay in presenting awards to some three hundred successful young participants in Gaisce, The President's Award Scheme, and I appreciate the concern and disappointment which these young people and their parents must feel. The position, however, is that there are a number of problems associated with the establishment of a permanent structure for Gaisce and it will not be possible to make arrangements for the presentation of awards until these difficulties have been resolved.
The Deputy can be assured that every effort will be made to arrange for the presentation of the awards at the earliest possible date.