Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy and acknowledge his engagement with me on an ongoing basis in respect of education issues. As already stated, I understand the anxiety and difficulties of our leaving certificate students in particular. I acknowledge that their representatives are very much part of our advisory committee that is preparing for our leaving certificate, which has met on two occasions and which will meet again in the coming days. The committee is looking at all of the different measures that need to be put in place for the leaving certificate, including all of the contingencies involved, and at many of the issues raised by the Deputy. The approach taken will be collaborative. The Deputy must remember that there are many partners in the education sector, such as the teacher unions, parents, managerial bodies, and, very importantly, students. All of their views must be taken on board. I appreciate that there is not unanimity and that there is a variety of views.

In the context of those with special educational needs, I acknowledge the tremendous work taking place in the special education sector. I also acknowledge that remote learning is not appropriate to all. For that reason, I welcome the very positive engagement with the partners in education to find a pathway forward in the next number of days towards 21 January and a resumption of face-to-face contact for students with additional needs.

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