Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have the floor now. The Deputy has made an assertion that I do not listen and that I have taken credit in relation to the reopening of schools. If the Deputy was assiduously listening, and if the Deputy had this particular interest in schools and what was happening in schools from September right up to December, she would know that at every opportunity in this House and outside I have said quite clearly that the successful and sustained reopening of our schools was due largely, in huge measure, to the magnificent and generous work of school communities the length and breadth of this country. I have never deviated from that view.

In relation to the work of teachers and SNAs, I have worked for long and many years in the education sector alongside SNAs. I regard them as valuable and valued partners in the education sector. I see at first hand what they have done. That is why I appreciate the collective approach. Indeed, as I said, I recognise when things do not work out it is necessary to engage and re-engage repeatedly. That has always been my process and I do it now.

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