Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 May 1997

Vol. 478 No. 6

Written Answers. - Special Education Needs.

Brendan Smith

Question:

108 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education the progress, if any, made to date in addressing the concerns of parents of children with Down's syndrome attending primary schools in counties Cavan and Monaghan; if consideration has been given to the further documentation submitted to her Department; if funding will be provided towards the cost of employing a visiting teacher; if a decision will issue at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11689/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers and of the further detailed documentation in relation to the children in question which has been submitted to my Department. My Department's inspectorate is currently investigating this matter and I have asked that this investigation be completed as soon as possible. I would point out that the areas in question are already included in the visiting teacher service. In addition, there is a special resource teacher based in the Cavan area to cater for children with particular disabilities, including Down's syndrome, attending certain primary schools in the area. Once my Department's inspectorate has completed its investigation, consideration will be given to possible responses to the needs of the children in question.