Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 18 November 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Social Protection

Special Needs Provision in Second Level Schools: SNPA, NCSE and NAPD

1:30 pm

Photo of Marie Louise O'DonnellMarie Louise O'Donnell (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Although this is not my area, it is in the very good hands of Ms Maher who is an extraordinary advocate because it comes from her well, in that she has her own beautiful son. Senator Mary Moran was saying the same. One understands it only because one has walked in the shoes. Somebody like Ms Maher can make such a difference to other people's lives, as Senator Mary Moran pointed out. Ms Maher is a wonderful conduit for children and parents who cannot speak for themselves or are not in a position to do so. I know that there is a lot to be done. This has been one of the most interesting education committee meetings I have attended. The delegates have been so alive and involved. I congratulate Mr. Paul Byrne on what is happening in his school in Carrick-on-Shannon. The two delegates come from two ends of the spectrum and are trying to come together through Mr. Clive Byrne and his organisation. I say well done to them.