Sinn Féin's Mary Lou McDonald criticized the proposal as another instance of "squandering taxpayers' money". She urged the Taoiseach to retract the initiative, emphasizing the need for more focused financial decisions instead.
Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon condemned the measure as the "Minister for Education's pet project", arguing that it diverts attention from more pressing educational matters and branding it a "scandalous waste of money".
Despite criticism, a supportive backbencher stated that many schools had initiated similar programs already, demonstrating positive outcomes such as increased student attention and reduced bullying. They argued the opposition's concerns were exaggerated.
Another TD recognized the validity of funding if mobile phone restrictions were considered, noting that existing school investments in phone pouches had proven beneficial, suggesting that some funding was justifiable even if it was criticized.
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