Vol. 541 No. 2
1099 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the special needs requirement of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if a placement in a special needs pre-school in County Cork will be made available to this person. [21802/01]
The educational needs of the person referred to by the Deputy have just recently been brought to my attention. I have asked my Department's inspectorate to investigate his educational needs. As soon as the inspectorate has reported my officials will be in contact with the family concerned.
1100 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science the resources made available by his Department for the provision of education services to children of school going age who are severely disabled and whose intellectual disability is the responsibility of his Department; and if St. Michael's House has sought assistance from his Department for the provision of specialist teachers for severely disabled children. [21803/01]
My Department makes provision for children with severe or profound general learning disabilities at a rate of one teacher and two special needs assistants for each special class catering for a maximum of six children. Children attending such classes attract special capitation funding at a rate of £451.50 per pupil. Upon establishment each special class also receives a grant of £5,000 for materials and equipment. Children attending special schools and special classes, including children with severe or profound general learning disability, are also entitled to a special school transport service and to be accompanied by an escort on such services.
St. Michael's House has put forward proposals for the development of further education services for children with severe or profound general learning disabilities. The proposals in question envisage the development of a new model of provision which would involve the employment of health care professionals on the staff of the proposed schools and the extension of education services beyond the current school year. The issues raised by the St. Michael's House proposal are currently being considered by my Department.
