Austin Deasy
Question:22 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education if she will provide financial assistance for the provision of irlen lenses to disadvantaged children who suffer from scotopic sensitivity syndrome in view of the cost involved.
Written Answers. - Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome.
Batt O'Keeffe
Question:230 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education if she intends to provide a grant for Filters for 14 children who attended a special school (details supplied) in County Cork.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 230 together.
I am advised that there are serious reservations among the medical and scientific professions as to the existence of the condition known as scotopic sensitivity syndrome, which the irlen lenses are purported to relieve.
The issue is a highly technical one which is a matter of some controversy. Until such time, therefore, as the condition has been properly evaluated and scentifically confirmed, it would be premature to consider the provision of funding for these lenses.