Carol Nolan (Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister said it has been reported there is an increased number of units in order to meet demand. I assure him that is not the case on the ground. I have met many parents and teachers who are totally frustrated. They feel very strongly about this issue and that their children are being failed. I am sure many Deputies concur with what I am saying because they have met the same stakeholders. The fact is there are not enough units.

I was very disappointed to see that a number of amendments which sought to address this issue were ruled out of order last week on the admissions Bill. It is a huge issue, as we have all been saying in the House. I am sure the parents who have contacted the Minister have told him the same thing. I welcome that the Minister has indicated he will deal with this issue on Report Stage of the admissions Bill but will he elaborate on this? Will he indicate whether this Bill will be dealt with before the recess?

I emphasise the need for inclusive education. The reports I am getting from parents are that they have to travel long distances in order for their child to attend a unit. That is wrong. It is not inclusive education and it is not giving children fair play or the chance to achieve a high quality education, far from it.

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