I propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 141 together.
My Department allocates concessionary teaching hours and special needs assistants to second level schools to cater for the special needs pupils. Applications for such support are made to my Department by the relevant school authorities. Each case is considered on its merits and determined on the advice of the psychological service.
The authorities of the school attended by the pupil referred to by the Deputy recently applied for additional teaching resources and a special needs assistant to cater for his special educational needs. The application was immediately referred to the psychological service for a report and recommendation. As soon as this report is received a decision will be taken on the application and the school authorities will be notified of the outcome without delay.