Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State referred to a case-by-case basis, but she did not say when the service level agreement, SLA, was signed or the last time this tender went out, which is what the question relates to. Approximately 4,700 schoolchildren are visually impaired. That is a relatively low number, but it is unquestionably a high-needs disability and children need supplementary tools relating to the curriculum.

When speaking at the education committee in respect of inclusive and accessible education, Ms Toni O’Dwyer stated:

We have recent examples of students who received books once they had finished the cycle – someone received in transition year his books that should have been available for his junior cycle. This means he received his books three years late. I do not know of any other cohort of children in education that wait months or years to get the books that they rely on to access their education.

It is true, particularly of young children, that a combination of learning materials is key. The importance of having these books in Braille cannot be overstated. Reliance on digital devices can be difficult for anyone.

When was the SLA signed and when was the last time this went out to tender?

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