James McDaid
Question:195 Dr. McDaid asked the Minister for Education the action, if any, she is taking regarding the early detection of dyslexia in our schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15991/95]
Written Answers. - Early Detection of Dyslexia.
Classroom teachers have a particular responsibility for identifying and responding to the learning difficulties of their pupils. In many instances, the intervention of the remedial teaching services may form part of the required response.
When more formal assessment is considered necessary, responsibility for pupils at primary level rests with the relevant health authority through the director of community care. In the case of post-primary pupils, the psychological services of my Department respond to assessment needs.
My Department is currently developing a school psychological service at primary level. However, it will be some time before this new service is in a position to take on responsibility for educational assessment from the health authorities.
The White Paper on Education attaches particular importance to early detection and intervention where children with special educational needs are concerned. Under the White Paper, it is intended that each school will be responsible for developing a policy on student assessment as part of its school plan. The policy in question will be required to have particular regard to pupils with special educational needs and the responses proposed to meet those needs.