Eileen Flynn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Many Senators may not be aware that more than 1,275 students are not required to go to school in Ireland in 2025. Maria Delaney. a journalist working with The Journal Investigates, has published a concerning report about how 1,275 students are on a reduced timetable. These children are not expected to go to school. It is unfortunate that these are children who have autism, children from the Traveller community and Roma children.I urge Senators to read the report by Maria Delaney. It is very concerning. One young person is quoted in the report as saying, "School makes me feel slow". Anne Burke from the Cork Traveller Education Unit spoke about how these children were excluded from school because of behaviour. That is my opinion, Anne's opinion and that of other activists quoted in the article. Adam Harris is quoted in the article as saying that schools are not able to meet the needs of autistic children. There is a serious discussion we need to have in this country about children who are already disadvantaged being more excluded from our education system. This should not happen under our watch, and definitely not under my watch as a legislator who wants to do better by all children. This is concerning for us all. I will table a Commencement matter but it is also a discussion we all need to have. There is inequality for these children. It is a proper scandal. In ten or 20 years down the line, we will look back and say how much we have failed more than 1,000 children.

In my last few seconds, I thank Aisling Hart, a clerk who has worked in and given service to Leinster House for the past 37 years. I first met Aisling in my first week here and I remember how friendly she was. She is a lovely person. She works with the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad. She is always making sure everyone is okay. I am sure other Senators will also extend warm thanks to Aisling. Not only are we losing a great clerk, but I am losing a good friend in here. She is the lovely friendly face who cares for us all. While we speak publicly, it is the clerks behind the scenes who do a lot of the work. I thank Aisling for all her service to Leinster House and wish her well in her retirement.