David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

Early intervention is crucial. Times have changed. Some 20 years ago many of the conditions I mentioned were not recognised. Conditions such as ADHD, ADD, dyspraxia, dyslexia, autism etc. were not recognised or discovered. It was the "bold child", a "nervous child" or an "awkward child" where dyspraxia was concerned, or the parents were bad parents. Parents are sometimes hauled in and grilled about their behaviour. Things have changed and we have to move on. In the past many of these children did not stay at school but dropped out early. Thankfully, they are now staying and they need the supports, but are not getting them.

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