Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for being with us today. This discussion is an opportunity for the House to acknowledge the huge stress many parents have been under during the Covid period. We have thanked many front-line workers, retail workers and all of those who have supported us through the Covid crisis.

Many parents have been looking after their own children and trying to balance childcare needs with work being carried out from home, while also dealing with educational demands. I acknowledge the strain that has been placed on parents. It underscores the need for a return to school as soon as possible.

I also acknowledge a survey which had a very comprehensive response, with 28,000 people responding to some questions. I note the finding that 91% of parents indicated they wanted to see a full and normal return to school. We need to do everything possible in order for that to happen. I am interested in getting the witnesses’ views on some of these issues, many of which are matters for the Government.

While digital technology is possible, I have concerns that those on the margins often lose out. How has the lack of a digital learning platform impacted on the learning of some children during the lockdown? With regard to the DEIS programme, disadvantaged areas and the digital divide, what technology will be needed in the home and the classroom to assist parents in whatever form of learning we have? I will allow the witnesses to respond before asking a final question.