Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)

As I outlined previously, the Department has reviewed the enrolment criteria and updated the circular. The updates to the circular were informed by robust engagement with the speech and language therapy service in the National Council for Special Education, the Irish Association of Speech and Language Therapists, and speech and language therapists in the HSE. It was a multifaceted process. There has also been ongoing engagement with school principals on enrolment into these classes for the coming school year.

In the medium term, the circular will be subject to review, typically one year after publication. This will involve the full range of education and health stakeholders, as I outlined. Issues identified in the implementation of the circular that require amendment will be made as necessary at that stage. However, the Deputy asked for something to happen a lot sooner than that. I am more than happy to pass that request on to the Minister. It should be possible to facilitate a meeting between the Deputy and the Minister.

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