Seán Power
Question:144 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in relation to a language class for County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22733/00]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
I understand that the management authorities at Scoil an Linbh Iosa, Prosperous, County Kildare, have expressed an interest in establishing a special class for pupils with specific speech and language disorder in their school.
My Department is in ongoing contact with the south western area health board with a view to identifying those pupils who require placement in the special class and determining the most appropriate location for the class, having regard to the locations of the pupils in question. Every effort is being made to finalise arrangements as soon as possible.
Pupils attending a special class for children with specific speech and language disorders require the support of a speech therapy service. My Department is in contact with the relevant health authorities to ensure that such a service will be available when the class is established.