Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am very pleased that children are returning to special education. As others have said it is a very positive step for the more than 8,000 pupils enrolled in special schools. The later return of the 7,500 pupils enrolled in special classes in mainstream primary schools is also very welcome. Some of these children suffered the most during the first lockdown and we all know that it is vital that that routine, that friendship and that learning are continued in this incredibly difficult time. There were two attempts to return these children to the classroom, attempts that failed in part due to a lack of communication. I hope the communication that was previously lacking is re-established.

It is vital that any future attempts to open up further sectors of both primary and secondary education are done with the full consultation of those involved. I was disappointed by some of the commentary around the role of teachers' unions in the reopening process. In fairness, the unions had the safety of children and staff to the fore in their considerations. It very much seems to me that relationships need to be repaired. I would like to hear how the Department has sought to mend relations with teachers and their unions and that is particularly important as we face into major decisions around the leaving certificate. To address that matter very briefly, the Minister, Deputy Foley, has announced two distinct processes for the 2021 leaving certificate, namely, planning for examinations and scoping out a corresponding measure different from examinations that can also be offered to students. A clear line of communication with trust and respect on all sides will be vital in the roll-out of whatever format is adopted, and this must include students and their representatives as well.

I ask about a support line for principals to help them with any issues they may encounter in the reopening process. Other Senators have spoken about this already but will the Minister of State give more details about the assistance provided? Will they be able to ask for extra resources such as PPE, surgical masks or testing kits if they become concerned about Covid-19 trends in the locality? In a situation where students are returning on alternate days it is vital supports be provided to parents for those days when the children are not attending school. I am keen to hear what outreach there will be and that it is communicated to parents in good time. School transport also poses a logistical problem. How will children be collected on the designated days they are attending school? Once again clear communication will be important. Parents must be given notice in advance of pick-up times. For many of the children we are talking about in this debate routine is essential and parents must be able to plan for the week ahead and explain this to their children.

Over the next few weeks we are bound to hear lots of varying opinions and predictions about when various sections of the economy will reopen. I ask that the Cabinet not second-guess the return of all schoolchildren and the possible format of State examinations. Debating the merits of the various options should be done with parents, stakeholders and the unions using trusted lines of communication. I wish, as do all Members, every child, teacher, SNA, parent and principal all the best for Thursday and next Monday. These teachers and SNAs do such important work and they are going back to work in very uncertain times. The recent frustration of the families of these children during the lockdown shows how valuable the work they do is so go n-éirí go geall libh ar fad.