Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It appears that the Minister said the policy has not changed but the practice is changing this year. This will be the first time when the practice will be different since the July provision was first introduced in 2002 or 2003. Difficulties might arise in particular cases. Deputy Ó Snodaigh referred to a case where there are three children in the one family. We must acknowledge the fact that the practice is changing and that the situation must be closely monitored by the Minister.

I would welcome a comment from the Minister on students who have the potential within their school to attend a summer day camp under the July provision system and whether they will be allowed to access it. One of the largest special needs and autism schools in the country is in Trim. Some children are in mainstream education and in previous years they were allowed to take part in the summer camp. However, their attendance this year is not automatic. I have concerns because of the new application of the policy. The parents must apply for an exemption in order for the children to participate in the summer camp rather than accessing it as part of home tuition. The children in question wish to participate in the summer camp. It has worked well in the past and their parents very much want them to participate. It will cost the Department less for them to do so. The children in question have applied for an exemption. I urge that the request in this case, and in other cases, be considered favourably by the Department.

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