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

I welcome the Minister's comment to the effect that she is continuing to give consideration to this matter. However, it is disappointing that a decision has not already been made. A great deal of consideration was given to this matter by the Minister's predecessor. Parents of children with Down's syndrome who are designated as having a mild intellectual disability were hopeful that the new model - about which there are many who have serious concerns - would assist their children by facilitating the allocation of additional hours. In view of the fact that the introduction of the new model has been delayed, it is crucial that a decision should be made in the next couple of months in order that those children with Down's syndrome who are designated as having a mild intellectual disability - as opposed to those with a moderate intellectual disability, who are automatically entitled to four and one quarter hours resource teaching per week - might be facilitated. Children with Down's syndrome who have mild intellectual disabilities are treated in the same way as any of their peers who may need additional learning support. Anyone who is the parent of a child with Down's syndrome will indicate that extra supports are required. It is unfair that such parents should be obliged to go another year without such supports being provided.

I urge the Minister to make a decision to facilitate the specific provision of these supports. Will she provide an update on when a decision will need to be made in order that the necessary resources might be put in place? Will she also indicate when she intends to make an announcement in respect of this matter?

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