John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I understand the Minister of State's answer but there are several points I wish to clarify. He stated, "With the thousands of resource teachers now in place in our schools, each school has enough general allocation hours to provide its pupils with a level of support appropriate to their needs." I could mention several schools that do not have access to adequate resources. This statement would gall those who are in a similar position to the family about which I spoke.

I accept there has been a great improvement in the allocation of resources for children with special educational needs, as the Minister of State outlined. That is welcome. There is clearly a case to be made, however, for children with Down's syndrome. It is a condition that effects only a small proportion of the primary school population and which responds well to early intervention. The provision of additional supports in the classroom will ensure these pupils can live independent lives in the future. Only a meagre allocation of resources is required to bring significant benefits.

I acknowledge the progress made in this area. For the level of financial outlay involved in my proposal, the benefits to the State far outweigh the costs that would be incurred. The Minister of State spoke about upcoming legislation in this area. I urge that some provision be made to ensure students with Down's syndrome are assisted in living independent lives as they grow into adults. Only a small proportion of the population of our primary schools is involved. This small investment will bring a great improvement in the standard of their lives and those of their loved ones.