Dáil debates

Tuesday, 28 July 2020

Future of School Education: Motion [Private Members]

 

11:15 pm

Photo of Pat BuckleyPat Buckley (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Sometimes drastic measures are needed in drastic times. This Private Members' motion could possibly be a catalyst to reform the education system when that reform is really needed. It calls for the development of a dedicated strategy to prioritise those who have lost out most. Many speakers have mentioned children with special needs and so on. School transport is, as we say in Cork, a box of frogs at the moment. People are stressed to breaking point because they do not know what is happening.

One individual whom I know, a seven year old named Zach, needs an autism-appropriate school to attend but no place has been found for him in the whole of east Cork. He does not even know if he will be in school if the schools open. His parents are facing a 50 km round trip to Cork city.

There are many issues that need to be addressed. I spoke to many primary and secondary school principals and they do not feel the confidence I hear about from the Government. They do not recognise the Government's assertion that there have been constant negotiations and talks. Many of the principals to whom I have spoken in recent weeks are very nervous. I hope there will be clarity for them.

I have been hearing about the issue of school class sizes. This is the most vital issue. I urge the Government to withdraw its proposed amendment because it will lead to people being left behind. It should stick to the motion as proposed by Sinn Féin. I ask the Government to support it. I congratulate my comrade and colleague, Deputy Ó Laoghaire, on bringing it forward.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.