Bernard Allen
Question:132 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students at primary level in receipt of special needs assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26560/03]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
Precise information on the number of students at primary level in receipt of special needs assistance is not available at present. To assist in the planning and delivery of services, my Department is at present developing a database of pupils with special educational needs. In that regard, a census form recently issued information in regard to all pupils with special educational needs.
There are approximately 500 special classes attached to mainstream primary schools. These classes cater for an estimated 4,000 pupils. Some 108 special schools cater for approximately 6,000 pupils. This pupil cohort is entitled to an enhanced capitation grant. A significant number of pupils avail of the following supports in mainstream schools on an integrated basis. The number of learning support teachers in the primary school system has increased from 1,302 in 1998 to 1,531. The annual salary cost of these teachers is approximately €54 million. The number of resource teachers has increased from 104 in 1998 to more than 2,300. The annual salary cost of these teachers is estimated at more than €70 million. The number of special needs assistants has grown from 300 in 1998 to 4,239 full-time and a further 1,264 part-time posts. The annual salary cost of this service is estimated at €100 million for 2003.
The allocation for part-time tuition services for children with special needs has been increased from €12 million in 2002 to €19 million in 2003. The allocation for school transport in 2003 is €97.5 million, which is an increase of 18.5% on last year's allocation. Almost 30% of the budget for school transport is being expended to facilitate the transport requirements of between 9,000 and 10,000 children with special needs at an average cost of €3,300 per pupil. Approximately €4.4 million is spent annually on the school transport escort service. Funding towards special equipment has increased from €635,000 in 1998 to €3.26 million in 2003.