Vol. 518 No. 4
82 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the procedures in place to identify the pupils attending primary schools who suffer from dyslexia or attention deficit disorders; and if he has satisfied himself that such procedures and the steps being taken for such pupils after diagnosis are adequate. [11719/00]
It is estimated that about 10% of Irish pupils at primary level have serious literacy difficulties arising from various causes. It is recognised that a small percentage of pupils among those have a specific reading disability or dyslexia. The early detection of reading difficulties is a function of class and remedial teachers. A variety of tests, standardised and diagnostic are used for this purpose. Where dyslexia is suspected, assessment by a psychologist is required.
Where teachers observe behaviours in pupils such as very poor attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, and where there is a co-existing learning difficulty, they may refer such pupils for assessment by a psychologist or child psychiatrist for possible diagnosis of attention deficit disorder.
It is considered that the present practice of identification and diagnosis of these difficulties by pupils' teachers, by psychologists assigned to schools and by clinical psychologists and child psychiatrists is the most effective way of ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.
My Department has allocated 1,465 remedial teachers and approximately 300 resource teachers at primary level to support pupils with difficulties such as those referred to by the Deputy. In addition, there are several special schools and special classes for these pupils. I am satisfied that these services constitute an adequate response to the special needs of the pupils concerned.
