Maria Byrne (Fine Gael)

I thank the witnesses and apologies for not being present for their opening statements, but I have read them. I was attending the health committee meeting, which is on at the same time. In regard to alternative therapies and how they can assist in classroom settings, is their use good practice and how can they be better utilised?

Assistive technology is sometimes used in isolation. Should it be integrated more into the teaching system? Would that be a good idea? Some children with disabilities may have issues with using assistive technology. Is there a way of introducing it or bringing it into mainstream teaching?

There is also the issue of the shortage of speech and language therapists in schools. How can we address that? I will start with those questions.