Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for her question. It is a matter we can consider in the coming weeks. It is a new scheme. It is voluntary for families and staff. It is open to all students in special schools and classes for those with the greatest need. The tuition is for five hours per week over four weeks, amounting to 20 hours. We certainly can consider that proposal.

The Chairman was talking about flexibility. Many schemes in the Department have been in existence for a long time and some have not. We are always trying to evolve, improve and make things better. If it were felt that it would be in the best interest of the child to have the scheme available in the school, as well as at home, it would obviously merit consideration. I thank the Deputy for bringing it up today.