Vol. 525 No. 2
831 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who has been unable to secure entry into any local school; and the proposals he has to deal with the matter. [23922/00]
889 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who was discharged following an education order and is now out of school for over six months and is too young for participation in Youthreach. [24277/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 831 and 889 together.
I am aware of the details of this case.
Enrolment in second level schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of individual schools and my Department does not interfere in decisions made by schools in such matters. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking second level places in an area. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
The National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, is available to all post primary schools recognised by my Department. NEPS can advise on the management of any difficulties that pupils might experience and which may present problems in a school setting. Where appropriate it can also advise on any educational supports which might be required to ensure that a pupil's time in school is as productive and positive as possible.
An educational needs questionnaire has been completed which helped identify the educational needs of the pupil in question and provided my Department with written permission to contact schools and NEPS on his behalf. The advice of my Department's inspectorate is being sought in this case, and every effort is being made to find a suitable school placement.
