Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
335. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to provide the July provision for special needs students in July as normal or August as per public health advice; and if the traditional provision is not possible in 2020, the alternatives that are under consideration as otherwise special needs children will go six months without attending class. [6605/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am committed to running a summer Provision type programme for children with complex needs this year as soon as it is safe to do so and in accordance with public health advice.
My Department is exploring a number of options for a summer education programme for children with complex special needs.
The primary aim of the proposed programme would be to limit potential regression in learning thereby ensuring in so far as possible that these children can reintegrate and transition into their planned education setting for next year with their peers.
This may be done through a targeted level of supports to address regression of social skills and re-establish tolerance of routines paving the way for reintegrating full time into education when schools reopen in the autumn.
