Vol. 541 No. 4
452 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the action he will take in order to afford a person (details supplied) in County Cork an opportunity to attend school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22739/01]
My Department is not aware of the case referred to by the Deputy. 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, or NEPS, is available to all post-primary schools recognised by my Department. NEPS can advise on the management of any difficulties which 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.
In order to progress the case referred to by the Deputy, my Department has issued a questionnaire to the child's parents which will help identify his educational needs and provide my Department with their written permission to contact schools and the NEPS on behalf of their child.
