Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

NEPS has continuously been directly involved with the schools since 12 March and, in fact, it would have had a significant role in determining the cancellation of the leaving certificate in terms of the impact on well-being and mental health of students. NEPS has a critical role. Part of the weakness and the negative we in the Department have identified is that, because of the regression, it is about reconnecting with the schools. From engagement with parents, including individual engagements I have with parents, I know parents want to see a stepping stone. This is a stepping stone to re-engagement and reconnecting with the school in August and September. If students need counselling support or any other support, that range of supports is there through NEPS and will be provided.

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