Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome the opportunity to speak briefly on this matter. At this juncture, the most important thing we can do is reassure the parents of children with special educational needs that the Government cares about those children and is providing for them. In fact, the special educational supports their children have been receiving and may receive in the future are there for them and will be there for them. We know that all hell broke loose after last week's announcement by the National Council for Special Education that there would be a cut. It is unfortunate that the whole issue grew all sorts of horns at that stage - it became a political football - because we are dealing with vulnerable children who need the support of this State and its system and we are also dealing with vulnerable parents.

All parents want the best outcomes for their children. They want their children to grow and to flourish. They cherish their children. When they hear about things like this, it strikes fear into them. Some reassurance can be given, as previous speakers have outlined. At a time when many budgets are being cut, the reality is that €1.3 billion has been ring-fenced to make sure services for children in these situations are not touched, as far as possible. We know there has been a spike of 12% in need, which is no mean feat considering the student population will increase by just 1.3% this year. The Minister has responded to that by providing for 500 extra places.

We know the Minister has given a reassurance that children who need special needs assistants will have them and will continue to have them, and that no policy change is required to stay within this cap.

I commend the Minister. The biggest problem is the budget. We know that ring-fencing it is not enough. We know there is a problem with money and that this money will have to be found elsewhere. Ultimately, however, we have to make priority decisions. As an ideal we must continue to strive for, we must protect vulnerable children and, in this instance, the children who need the support of the State to ensure a better future for them and for our country.

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