Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to make a submission to this review. The review is something we have been calling for and talking about for so long. There are many issues here. The idea of going back to a circular, which came out in response to a parliamentary question in 2021 or 2022, needs to be explained and taken apart. It is out of date, and not fit for purpose. However, the real issue here is that we need to have a body of work in place to make sure that children reach their full potential. Technology has changed dramatically in the last five years. There needs to be a body of work to educate teachers and the Department of Education about what is out there. I think they are behind the curve on assistive technology, and the need for it. That I have students who are still awaiting the approval of the State Examinations Commission for the use of assistive technology for their junior certificate exams, even though they have spent the last two years using it, is a sign of how out of date this is. The other issue about the technology is whether it will be for the school or the child. It is bizarre. I know of a child who is nearly finished first year with no technology, even though she had it for her previous time in school.