Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Seán Canney has welcomed a decision to provide summer education programmes for children with special needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.
Minister Canney said: “I am delighted that provision is being made for children who need specialist support.
“The programme will be contingent on schools, teachers and special needs assistants choosing to participate and I would strongly urge them to support this initiative.
“It should help address some of the very real concerns of students, parents and carers about the impact that COVID-19 restrictions have had on children with acute educational needs.
“The summer programmes will offer an opportunity for students to reconnect with their teachers, their school environment and their fellow students.
“It will also provide a stepping stone back to full-time education for the new school year pending anticipated progress in the battle against COVID-19.
“All summer education programmes will operate according to public health guidelines and the model will be similar to that of the previous July provision arrangements. I am pleased that children with Down Syndrome will be included in the programmes.
“My ministerial colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh TD, will be further engaging with schools to finalise proposals within the very near future.”

For more information, contact Minister Canney on 086-2513639
June 8 2020