Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 4

Written Answers. - Higher Education Grants.

John Perry

Question:

319 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the problems that a person (details supplied) in County Sligo is encountering with the equipment needed for her to commence her arts degree programme in NUI Galway; if he will intervene on her behalf and have funding made available to ensure that the braille 'n' speak machine is put in place before she starts her degree; if he will make a favourable decision in view of the circumstances outlined in the correspondence attached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17382/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

In addition to the financial assistance available under the grant schemes for further and higher education, students with disabilities, attending courses in third level colleges-institutions and post leaving certificate centres, may apply for assistance from the special fund for students with disabilities, which is administered by my Department. The purpose of the special fund is to provide grant assistance to students with serious physical and-or sensory disabilities towards the cost of special equipment, special materials and technological aids, targeted transport services, personal assistants and sign language interpreters.

Applications for assistance under the special fund are received by my Department at the beginning of the academic year. Applications are normally forwarded to my Department by the disability officer, or the responsible college officer.

I understand that the person in question has already been in contact with the disability officer in NUI Galway regarding an application for assistance under the special fund. Once she has registered for her course in mid-September, the disability officer will then be in touch with my Department regarding the application.

While my Department is not in a position to commit specific monies from the special fund in advance of applications being received, I would point out that, in previous years, students with sensory disabilities have been considered a priority in terms of funding for equipment and personal support and tuition. Applications for assistance under the special fund will be dealt with expeditiously in order to ensure that awards are made at the earliest possible date.