Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am not a member of the committee. I am due to attend the National Diversity and Inclusion Awards in Croke Park later this evening. It is due to start at 6.30 p.m.

My one ask is that undergraduates completing third or fourth year of their qualification in occupational therapy, speech and language therapy or physiotherapy be included in the summer programme, which has replaced July provision. They can be Garda vetted. They are going elsewhere for experience but they could get real-life experience within the summer programme. I ask the Minister of State to ensure that happens. Deputy Connolly referred to Garda vetting and that needs to be a priority but there are many people at college who could be paid to work on the summer provision programme. It would be valuable work experience for them and it would help us to ensure there is provision for kids who need it during the summer.

I compliment the committee members on their dedication and the work they have done in a short time. The more we speak about this across parties and at all committees, the more we can do for people with disabilities. I commend the report to the House. I thank Deputy Tully for allowing me in.

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