Vol. 508 No. 1
866 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps, if any, he will take to ensure a speech therapist is appointed to St. Brigid's school, Harlow Street, Mullingar, County Westmeath, in view of the fact that a number of students would benefit from speech therapy on a daily basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17788/99]
Responsibility for the provision of speech therapy services is a matter for the health authorities through the relevant health board. I have asked my officials to carry out a review of the general situation concerning the provision of speech therapy services in special schools and special classes, in consultation with the Department of Health and Children. My objective is to ensure that the system is in a position to respond in a positive and efficient manner to the needs, which arise within the school system. The needs of the school referred to by the Deputy will be considered in the context of this review.
