Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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305.To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to respond to a query on July provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25058/24]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Details of the 2024 Summer Programme were published on the 21^stMarch 2024. This builds on the successful summer programmes of the last three years. The full funding of €40m is available and, as in previous years, all of the funding is utilised to meet the needs of our most vulnerable children.

All schools have an opportunity to run a programme over the summer months for those children who need it the most so that these children can continue to be supported, nurtured and encouraged to engage in a fun and inclusive educational setting.

The main priority again in 2024 is that those children with the most complex special educational needs, especially in special schools, should have access to a school-based summer programme.

The Home-based programme is also available for pupils with complex special educational needs in circumstances where their school is not running a Summer Programme or a place on a school-based programme is unavailable. Details of the Home-based programme, including full details on the eligibility criteria, were issued to schools directly on the 29^thMay 2024 and has been published on .

It is a matter for individual schools to assess whether a child meets the eligibility criteria as set out in the terms and conditions of the school or home-based provision being applied for. If the school determines that the child does not meet the eligibility criteria, there are no alternative ways in which parent can access the Summer Programme.

A Department helpline is available for schools and parents at 090 648 4292 to address any specific queries regarding year’s Summer Programme. Queries concerning the school-based scheme can be directed to the . Queries concerning the Home-based scheme can be directed to the .