Vol. 513 No. 3
313 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a laptop computer has not been made available to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2392/00]
My Department operates a scheme for the provision of grants for second-level schools towards the purchase of equipment for the use of pupils with certain disabilities or communication difficulties. The purpose of the scheme is to provide such pupils with equipment of direct educational benefit to them. Computer equipment and software are items that may be provided. Under the terms of the scheme the school auth orities make an application in respect of an individual pupil. I understand that no application has been received by my Department in respect of the student in question. My officials have been in touch with the school authorities to ensure that the school is fully informed about the scheme and to advise the school to submit an application on behalf of the student. I understand that the student has already been assessed and that the school has all the relevant documentation. The application once received will be processed by my Department without delay.
