Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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I thank the witnesses for attending. This is one of the rare occasions when I agree with everything that people on the other side of the room have said. I make no apologies for that. I love STEM. The witnesses can ask Deputy Farrell, who is sitting beside me. I am an unrepentant geek. However, it takes more than being a geek to have an interest in STEM subjects.

I was delighted to hear Dr. Connolly trying to break down the mystery of computer science. In some cases, it is almost seen as the third secret of Fatima, but that is not what it is. It is a stand-alone subject and needs to be valued as such.

Dr. Connolly spoke about equity and equality in access to certain devices through schools and the various options available. The majority of children are educated in schools, but not all are. What impact does the lack of standardised access to devices have on children who are home-schooled, which depends on the ability of the parent? Are additional resources available through the Department of Education for the parent or guardian?

I do not have much time, and I wanted to give more time to each of the witnesses to speak, but I will focus on issues raised by Dr. Leahy and Professor Venkat. Recently, the second STEM education implementation plan was published. It covered the years 2017 to 2026.

To my mind, that is an extremely long period. Does Professor Venkat have an opinion on that? If the length of time in which science is taught in school were to be extended, is the curriculum fit for purpose to integrate the discipline and integrated aspects of STEM and to give confidence to students from a young age to leaving certificate level?