Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Oct 2001

Vol. 541 No. 4

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Seán Haughey

Question:

501 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will facilitate the placement of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 in a suitable secondary school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23034/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

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 that 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 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. My Department's inspectorate has been involved in attempting to resolve this case. The parents of the pupil referred to by the Deputy have been invited to attend a meeting with the principal of a local school.