Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 5 Jul 2001

Vol. 540 No. 3

Written Answers. - Psychological Service.

Austin Deasy

Question:

348 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the severe urgency of a case (details supplied), he will give a report on progress in obtaining a placement for this person from County Waterford. [20734/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

Enrolment in second level schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of individual schools. 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. The 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

To progress this case further a questionnaire issued to the child's parents on 30 May 2001 which will help identify his educational needs and provide my Department with their written permission to contact schools and the NEPS on behalf of this child. To date, the relevant section of my Department has not received the completed questionnaire.