Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. As he said, this programme needs to be kept under constant review. If we do so, it will ensure that no child will be left behind, regardless of the uptake by schools. It is fantastic to see €2,000 per child being made available through grants and that this funding can be used to support children in the home or in education, depending on the needs of the family and the child concerned, in conjunction with SNAs.

The Senator would have raised the point previously as well about SNAs being able to stay on the payroll during the summer. Not having them falling off it and going onto social welfare is important. If they want to make themselves available for work, now, they can do so. The flexible weeks and flexible grant funding demonstrate the Department of Education's willingness to ensure that parents are supported. Most importantly, it also demonstrates that children are supported to meet their needs in a group setting, in the home or in the community. Equally, if schools are not available, it is important that there is a wider aspect to this programme. The Senators mentioned the Little Wonders facility in his area. It is important that such facilities are able to avail of the grant as well.