Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I will pass that on to my colleague, Sorca Clarke. Phase 1 of the scheme for ISL classroom assistants and school advisers was first announced on 2 March 2022 and an implementation plan announced in November 2022. Advocates believe only a fraction of the envisaged 40 posts in phase 1 have been filled to date and the narrow medical criteria are a barrier to many children getting the support they need and discourage families from considering ISL as a communication option for their children.

Can the Minister confirm when phase 2 starts? Is she aware that a number of deaf students are applying to the State Examinations Commission to complete an exam in their first language, namely ISL, in the leaving certificate in 2025? Will she ensure the Department and relevant agencies complete the necessary preparations and arrangements for this to happen?

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