Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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I was asked to be brief and I will try. I have three questions. Last week, as the Minister of State knows, we had representatives of the NCSE before us. I asked if its planning and analysis of the need for school places was robust enough so the Department and schools could plan ahead. I ask the Minister of State the same question. Given the legislation we will deal with this week, does any aspect of the process need to be strengthened? That relates to planning.

My second question relates to the Minister of State's comment earlier about interest among teachers. Does she have an indication of that level of interest among teachers in providing special education? The Minister of State told us about supports for teachers already in place but has there been any reorientation with respect to teacher training models for new teachers? It is crucial for all teachers because if education is to be inclusive, there must be reorientation, but it is particularly important for teachers who want to specialise. It should be seen as an attractive proposal.

My final question concerns July provision. All of us receive so many emails from parents right across the country who are beyond distressed. One parent told me the family would be in lockdown until 1 September, and that gives an indication of how acute this problem is. In that context, has the Minister of State given thought to childcare practitioners, many with level 6 or level 7 qualifications, who have expressed an interest in providing July provision? I understand it is not something that can be done overnight but has that been considered and is the Minister of State planning for it?