Vol. 478 No. 7
139 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the high level of pupils in need of behavioural and educational assessment and remedial English and maths in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and the steps, if any, she is taking to ensure that those needs are catered for. [11939/97]
The school referred to in the question was identified as one of those which should have access to the new psychological service for primary schools. Accordingly, a Department of Education psychologist has been assigned to the school since the beginning of the school year 1995-96. Pupils, parents and teachers have access to this service through the school principal.
The school is visited by the psychologist concerned who carries out assessments as the resources of time and personnel allow. In addition, he engages in a certain amount of casework with those pupils and parents who would benefit from counselling in the school situation. The psychologist also provides advice to the school staff in relation to pupils who may have behavioural and learning difficulties, including difficulties with reading and maths.
In order to meet the needs for remedial intervention which have been identified by assessments, my Department has also allocated two remedial teachers to the school.
Where learning or behavioural difficulties are perceived to be more serious, pupils may be referred to the appropriate specialist agencies of the health authorities. Parents also have access to these agencies through the school medical service or the family doctor.
