Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 1

Written Answers. - Juvenile Offenders.

Billy Timmins

Question:

174 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the research made available to the British Home Secretary indicating that up to 50% of juvenile delinquents were found to have the symptoms of dyslexia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23762/99]

Billy Timmins

Question:

175 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide details of the research, if any, carried out by his Department on juvenile delinquents to establish if they have the symptoms of dyslexia; if not, the plans, if any, he has to conduct such research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23763/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 175 together.

I am not aware of the specific research to which the Deputy refers. However, it is recognised that many children involved in juvenile delinquency and coming to the attention of the courts are found to have very low levels of educational attainment.

My Department's policy in relation to the identification of children with specific learning disability, including dyslexia, is in line with the recommendations of the special education review committee which reported in 1993. The criteria involved include: an assessment by a psychologist on a standardised test of intelligence which places general intellectual ability within the average range or above, and performance in basic literacy skills in relation to objective criteria using standardised tests. It would generally be expected that not more than 2% of the overall pupil population would be found to be in this category.

The educational needs of children with specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, are generally capable of being met within the ordinary school system, with the support where necessary of the remedial teacher service.

All juvenile offenders placed in the custodial facilities operated under my Department undergo detailed assessment of all aspects of their needs, including their educational needs. The educational programmes delivered in these facilities are very broadly based and take account of the wide range of needs and abilities of the children in question. Individualised education and care programmes are developed for each child and any special educational needs are addressed as part of these programmes. The educational progress of all these children is monitored by my Department's inspectorate.