Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I completely agree that assistive learning technology is a tool and no more than a tool. It is a tool that, if used properly, can have significant positive impacts. I agree with Ms Maher that the quality of a teacher cannot be substituted. In the case I mentioned, the teacher involved did a training course on assistive technology, dyslexia and dyspraxia which benefited not only the child in question but every other child coming up through the school. I completely agree that it is a tool, but it is a tool that can have a positive impact. There is the issue of IEPs and the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, but when schools invite us in and give us an educational plan for the year outlining what they will prioritise and their areas of focus, it is a collaborative approach. That is where the assistive technology is brought into it. It is brought in in conjunction and partnership with the teachers, parents and student. I agree that it is only a tool; it is not the answer. It is a tool that has the ability to transform somebody's educational experiences.