Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yes, days and weeks. Weeks turn into months relatively easily. However, I am not on the negotiating team and neither is the Minister, so we will just have to keep doing our respective jobs.

This is obviously an area that needs work. The restoration of guidance counselling has been highlighted as a key concern. Full restoration must remain a priority, regardless of what comes out of the confidence and supply talks. It is essential that this is done.

Again, I urge the Minister to look at the issue of nurses. This has been recommended by the National Council for Special Education, NSCE. A small number of nurses could significantly help the physical and mental well-being of a significant number of students, particularly in regard to medication for various ailments or conditions. We need nurses in schools to prevent other problems from happening. We do not need a nurse in every school, although that is the case in some other countries. We do need to make a start.

In closing, I welcome the fact that the Minister's well-being policy statement and framework for practice has been published. I am delighted to be here on behalf of Deputy O'Loughlin to debate the committee's report. I am glad we have done the work. I want to thank everyone involved. I mentioned Mr. Alan Guidon, other members of the committee and the witnesses that came before us. I also thank the other staff of the committee. A whole host of further actions are required if we are to move beyond crisis management. The holistic approach that we are moving towards is what this area requires.

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