Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and wish him well in his new role.

In regard to question No. 4 on mother and baby homes, I am disappointed that we do not have terms of reference. I note the appointment of a chairperson. It is important that an international dimension be included in the commission. I ask the Minister to give a firm commitment that the terms of reference will be in place at the start of the next Dáil term and that they will be inclusive and fit for purpose.

With regard to question No. 5 on free preschool places for children with learning difficulties, it is virtually impossible for children with additional needs to receive support in ECCE services. It is commonplace that assessments are made later in the preschool year and they do not determine the supports children require. It is an appalling example of two Departments ignoring their policy responsibilities. The preschool ratio is one carer to 11 children, but the ratio for children with special needs to be much lower. I ask the Minister to investigate how this can be rectified in order that assessments will be made at the beginning of the preschool year.