Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 1

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

111 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are eight deaf students pursuing a course in Roslyn Park College, Dublin 4, unable to follow the course due to the fact that there is no sign language interpreter available; if his attention has further been drawn to the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 390 of 9 November 1999 on this matter stating that the supply of sign language interpreters is the responsibility of his Department; and the steps, if any he will take to rectify the matter. [23806/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The provision of services to people with physical and sensory disabilities, including sign language interpreter services, is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the Eastern Health Board with a request that he examine the query and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.