Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Feb 1999

Vol. 499 No. 5

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

John McGuinness

Question:

123 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department will investigate the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny who requires a special room and equipment in her school at St. Canice's, Grange Road, Kilkenny, due to her disability and is experiencing long delays in meeting her needs; if his Department will accept the reports already submitted and grant her the use of a personal assistant and the other requirements which have been detailed; and if the case will be considered immediately in view of the fact that she returned to school on 1 February 1999. [3092/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I understand that the child in question is not yet in a position to return to school and will be attending the Central Remedial Clinic shortly for assessment. A decision on the question of the child's return to school will not be taken by the relevant professionals until after this assessment has been completed.

I can assure the Deputy that, if following assessment, it is decided to set a date for the child's return to St. Canice's school, my Department will sanction a special needs assistant to cater for her needs while at school.

The school recently applied for additional accommodation to facilitate the child in question. My Department is currently involved in clarifying the child's precise accommodation needs. I expect that this process will be concluded shortly and my Department will be in touch with the school management in order to progress the matter further.