The Children's Ombudsman has said that Covid-19 restrictions are bringing about a "perfect storm" for parents of children with special needs.
Dr Niall Muldoon said that some parents are getting in touch with his office to say their children are struggling with their mental health.
Speaking on RTÉ's Brendan O'Connor programme, Dr Muldoon said that "a lot" of children are now in a state of emergency as they cope with the Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions.
He said it was "near impossible" for parents to try to maintain the level of learning, consistency and lifestyle required by children with additional needs during the restrictions.