We have two special education classes in Kerry for primary school children who are deaf or hard of hearing. However, there are no classes for second level students. I cannot understand how the Department of Education does not see that there is a need for continuation of supports for second level, particularly when students are faced with learning so many new subjects and also when they are at an age when, in terms of their mental health, they can struggle to cope with so many challenges. Every child is precious and deserves to be helped in every way to reach their full potential. Deaf children need full access to education. Technology can only do so much. Deaf children still miss out on so much. A Kerry student who spent four years in a school before it opened its unit was lost, withdrawn, anxious and prone to complete meltdowns from the stress of trying to engage and to keep up with her class. She is a different girl today.

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. In an earlier time, I was, as an educator, involved with hard-of-hearing children. There has been a movement towards integration, and that is perhaps why the two special classes are available at primary level in Kerry. I will talk to the Minister for Education with a view to discovering why special arrangements cannot be progressed at second level in order to facilitate those children as they progress from primary to secondary school. Historically, people had to travel long distances, which was not acceptable either. There are mechanisms to enable this to happen. I will certainly follow up with the Deputy. If he gives me some further details, I will talk to the Minister for education about this.