Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I echo the congratulations to the Taoiseach on his new position. I also echo the comments about his kids. It was really positive and a great experience to have them in the Chamber on this particular day. I wish the newly appointed Ministers well in their Departments. I congratulate Deputy Hildegarde Naughton on her appointment as Minister of State with responsibility for special education and acknowledge her continued role as Chief Whip, which has been significant for me in securing, for the first time ever, two minutes of non-aligned speaking time. That has been instrumental in ensuring that I can raise important issues affecting my constituents. For that, I am grateful. I also acknowledge the consistent civility she has demonstrated towards me in her role. I look forward to working with her for the benefit of my constituents.

With that in mind, I point to the serious urgency of forward planning for secondary school places in Clare. Ennis has significant issues, as does west Clare. The number of primary school special classes does not tally with the places in our secondary schools. As a parent of a child with additional needs, it is incredibly unsettling when I am told of parents who do not know where their child is going to go to secure a secondary school place. I ask that this be a priority. We know it is important and that has been said by the Taoiseach. It is important that the Taoiseach specified inclusivity and access. There is also a need for training and awareness programmes to be rolled out to all schools and to all staff members.

It is positive to hear about the commitment to the effect that the Minister for Social Protection will look at the means-tested payment for carers and ensure that more of them receive it. I want to see the full abolition of means testing, and I hope a plan will be delivered shortly to make that a reality. For far too long, our carers, who do one of the most difficult jobs and, at the same time, who save the State money, have not been recognised fully.

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