Jim Higgins
Question:150 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education the number of Downes Syndrome children currently attending primary schools; and the number of these children who have the services of specialist or visiting teachers.
Written Answers. - Downs Syndrome School Children.
Information is not readily available on the number of children with Downs Syndrome currently attending primary schools.
The majority of these children are included among those assessed as moderately and mildly mentally handicapped who attend special schools and classes. These pupils benefit from the preferential pupil teacher ratios which apply to these types of schools and classes.
At present 44 Downs Syndrome children enrolled in ordinary primary schools receive the support of the visiting teacher service. Others receive the service of remedial and resource teachers.