Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Burton. I believe we are on the same page. In her response she indicated that her greatest concern is the process which results in many parents feeling ignored and bypassed. I understand that. Parents in my own constituency feel that way. I am aware of the number of people who have signed the petition and who have been in touch with many Deputies. I appreciate the willingness of Deputy Burton to raise this issue now.

My response is to say that it is important to consult parents. That is why I have paused. The overage exemption will continue for September 2018. We are currently planning how to engage in a meaningful consultation with interest groups and to place that in a dialogue with, as I said in my initial response, the evidence from which the experts made this recommendation to me. The experts involved not just those in my Department but also those from the Department of Education and Skills and the disability sector. I accept that expertise has to be placed in dialogue with consultation with parents. That is what I have done.

In the past, the ECCE scheme comprised 38 weeks, which has now increased to 76. We have introduced the Better Start Access and Inclusion Model, AIM, which, as the Deputy knows, is an incredible support for children with special needs. I referred to the development of inclusive policies and practice in respect of the Department of Education and Skills, which has responsibility for this area. I accept all of the Deputy's points. I think we are on the same page. I have made a decision. I hope that in light of that consultation, we will come to the best policy possible.

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