Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

When we look back at how we dealt with this crisis, we will be judged by how it affected the most vulnerable in our society. This is especially true of children with special needs. Their daily routine is vital to them and it is what they need to progress. School plays a vital role in that. Unfortunately, school closures have had a detrimental impact on children with special needs and their families. Sadly, some children have regressed since March.

The disruption that has been caused in people's lives shows how important this year's July provision is. It helps children realise their full potential. That is why we need clarity on this issue. The disruption and chaos in the lives of families with children with special needs need to be replaced by clarity and structure. The benefits of the July provision are enormous. It is fantastic that children with Down's syndrome, who have been excluded until this year, will be included in this year's programme. I raised this issue with the Minister, and I am pleased that he is widening the scope of the programme to include them. Will he confirm that on Friday he will bring clarity to the roll-out of this year's July provision?

I take this opportunity to raise an issue with Scoil Chrónáin in Rathcoole. A site provided by South Dublin County Council to the Department to facilitate the school's expansion is now the subject of a planning application for another school - a new school that has no fully approved long-term site. I ask for an urgent meeting with departmental officials to clarify the situation for both schools involved.

See this speech in context