Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Specifically on the senior cycle, I appreciate the valuable contribution of the committee. It can be assured that the work will be expedited as quickly as possible.

On T1 and T2, the consultation concluded only two days ago, on 30 November. That will be part of the consideration. It is important that there was an opportunity to have the widest possible consultation in advance of a decision.

On the CLASS support, it is too early at this point. We will have a greater indication regarding the drawdown later because it kicked off only in the past few weeks. We will see a greater drawdown as the year progresses. The scheme is excellent because it provides additional support to schools for the teaching of students who have been disadvantaged due to school closures. It provides for academic teaching and learning, but also for the creativity, socialisation and well-being aspects. It is wide in what it encompasses.

On pensions, it is difficult to forecast on a year-to-year basis because there is an opportunity for people to make a decision at various times.

On transport, the issue was a consequence of school closures. The figure in question refers specifically to the savings on Covid-related costs of cleaning, PPE and all that. Moneys not spent in that regard must be returned. Significant work is ongoing. The Deputy will be aware of the review. It relates to how we manage school transport, particularly in our environment. There is an incredible body of work being done in that respect. The first interim report was received by me, and the work continues. I am very conscious of this. We are certainly working on it.

On ventilation, I reiterate that we work on a case-by-case basis while recognising that different schools have different difficulties that need to be addressed. We are following the guidance offered by the expert group, which has told us there may well be a place for these filter devices but that in the long term we need to look at making more adequate and more long-term provision within our schools. We are doing that, whether it is vents or windows or whatever the case may be. We are working individually with the schools. That work has taken place already. Specifically on the filters, the Department is-----