Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I note the Minister did not contradict me. My understanding is that only five or six schools have signed up at this stage. More may come forward but I have similar concerns in respect of teachers. I have spoken to some who ordinarily participate but who are not prepared to do so now because they are unhappy about the lack of detail and feel uncertain.

Another issue for schools is that of insurance. Clarity must be provided in that regard.

The Minister asked us to be constructive. Where teachers are concerned, the Minister needs to look beyond the standard cohort of registered teachers. Retired teachers need to be considered. In addition, substitute teachers are concerned about losing their Covid payments. The Minister needs to consider that matter and ensure that they keep their payments so that they can sign up as well.

I asked about Down's syndrome children and the Minister has confirmed that they will be eligible. I hope it will not just be a small number and that we will be in a position to accommodate a large cohort. I have grave concerns, though, because I do not see the numbers adding up.

The Minister stated that, traditionally, the summer programme was delivered on a 70:30 basis of at home versus at school. Since I am running out of time, I will ask my remaining questions together. Is the Minister expecting that type of balance or does he expect it to be weighted more towards school? What is the date on which he expects the scheme to start? Will the Department accept late applications? Many questions arise around social distancing, hand-washing and so on but I am sure we will see those being addressed on Friday.

One of the most important elements of July provision is socialisation. Has the Minister picked up the phone and talked to the HSE about the summer camps it runs for many of the same children? Could the HSE stretch those camps out a bit as an accompaniment? In terms of special education, what provisions will be made to reintroduce children to social activities in the school environment in September, given that so many have been isolating at home since March?

I hope this works but from talking to teachers and parents, the job involved is enormous and it is hard to see the numbers adding up.

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