Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that excellent news on special classes. It is important. She mentioned she was in contact with over 14 schools located in the Dublin area, but it is crucial that the total number of special classes is being increased. I represent Roscommon and Galway. When take in conjunction with Athlone and Westmeath in general, the overall catchment area is extremely large. Senator Carrigy has often spoken about the challenges of parents who must travel. This is really appreciated. There are so many schools that have special classes. They are going over and above, and their principals are trying to make do with capacity and everything else. They are finding rooms, if needed, for autism spectrum disorder classes. It is crucial that our boards of management, principals and teachers are working together to achieve this for their communities.

I thank Senator Warfield for tabling the amendment because it has allowed us to discuss the issue of capacity. I appreciate that, as the Minister of State mentioned that submissions can be made in respect of the EPSEN Act. We will all have an opportunity to make such submissions to the Department. The Minister of State mentioned the first quarter of 2023 as the deadline, so it is crucial that we make our submissions and engage proactively in respect of the Act, which needs to be updated and amended as soon as possible.