Vol. 559 No. 1
224 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if children returning to main stream education from special language units for speech and language disorders are automatically entitled to a resource teacher; if so, the number of hours per week; the process for applying for resource hours for such children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25529/02]
Children who meet the criteria for admission to specific speech and language disorder classes generally spend two years in such classes. Each class operates at a pupil teacher ratio of 7:1 and is supported by a speech therapy service provided by the relevant health authority.
On returning to mainstream classes such children can be entitled to support from the resource teacher service and the special needs assistant service. The nature and level of support provided is based on the professionally assessed needs of the individual child. All schools have been advised of the procedures to be followed where resource teacher or special needs assistant support is being sought in respect of a child with special needs.
