Jen Cummins (Dublin South Central, Social Democrats)

I thank the Minister of State for clarifying that.

With regard to mild general learning disabilities, I have been contacted by a number of schools for such children and I brought this up with the Minister, Deputy McEntee. I reiterate the need for those schools. I know there are places needed for children with complex needs. I am nervous for those children who are in those schools that cater for mild general learning disabilities. If they do not receive the same supports they do now in those schools because the school becomes a catch-all, I would be worried that they would not reach their full potential as they may do now. I know there is a huge shortage of special education places throughout the country and the Department is trying to do its best, and I acknowledge that the Minister of State has worked very hard since coming into post to get that done, but could there be further negotiation with those schools in advance such that it does not happen from September onwards?