Patrick McCartan
Question:78 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Education the facilities available at primary school level in Ireland for children suffering from language difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Written Answers. - Speech and Language Difficulties.
The needs of children suffering from specific speech and language difficulties are catered for through the provision of special classes dedicated to addressing the particular needs of such children.
To date a total of six such classes have been established. Two classes are located in St. Patrick's NS, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, and two in the Good Shepherd NS, Churchtown, Dublin 14. The remaining classes are located in Scoil Ard Mhuire, Belgard, Tallaght, Dublin 24 and Scoil Chaitríona Junior, Renmore, Galway.
Two further classes, one in Limerick and one in Clare, have been sanctioned recently by my Department.
All such classes enjoy a favourable pupil teacher ration of 8:1.
The needs of children with speech and language difficulties are kept constantly under review to ensure that adequate support services are made available.