Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Jun 1998

Vol. 493 No. 2

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Pat Carey

Question:

192 Mr. P. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason his Department has made a decision not to site a unit for children with specific learning difficulties in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15523/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The school to which the Deputy refers was one of a number of schools considered by my Department in the context of its proposal to establish a special class for children with specific learning disability in the north Dublin area.

Decisions regarding the establishment and location of such classes take account of such matters as the nature and level of assessed need, the locations of the children requiring the facility, suitability for transport purposes, the availability of accommodation and the general suitability of the location.

Having regard to all of the above considerations, it was considered that the school to which the Deputy refers would not be the most suitable location for the special class in question. However, I am pleased to note that a special class for children with specific learning disability will commence in Donaghmede in September next.

My Department will continue to support the establishment of such further special classes as are required to meet the needs of children with specific learning disability, including those on the north side of Dublin.