The Department of Education will reopen applications for the July Provision scheme after a one-week deadline left some families unable to apply.

The scheme offers summer educational support for children with additional needs. Families and schools had reported distress after the short window prevented timely submissions.

Pearse Doherty TD raised the issue during Leaders’ Questions. He stated that previous years allowed months for applications and that the reduced period created unfair barriers.

Doherty said the July Provision Scheme supplies essential structure and continuity for children during summer months. He called the closure after one week a badly handled decision.

He urged the government to extend the portal so no child loses access to the supports. The change follows direct appeals from parents, teachers and school principals.

The July Provision applications will now be accepted again to address the shortfall caused by the initial deadline.