The recurring theme of my time in this Chamber is talking about special education. Today I want to bring up the NCSE asking parents to notify it before 1 October if their child needs space in a school. This is fantastic because it means the process is supposed to move on further.

Sentiment score: 0.35

I have been assured by both the Minister, Deputy McEntee, and the Minister of State, Deputy Michael Moynihan, that despite the fact 1 October has passed, this will not prevent any child who gets a diagnosis or a letter of eligibility afterwards from being considered. This is not the experience of many parents who have contacted me. Some of them are from the Tánaiste’s constituency. If you look at the website today and go to the portal, you will see it says it is closed. There is no way to navigate that.

Sentiment score: 0.01

I am able to say to parents what I have been told and they are able to get around it that way but this must be much clearer for parents. It is very difficult. I am speaking on behalf of other parents who have told me it is difficult to have a child with a disability and additional needs and navigate that system. Will the Tánaiste please ask the Minister to get the NCSE to clarify that situation for parents, so they are not in this loop. They seem to be stuck in a gap.

Sentiment score: -0.14