School Staffing.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 June 2005

Wednesday, 1 June 2005

Questions (231)

Enda Kenny

Question:

239 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department will sanction a new teaching post for a school (details supplied) in County Louth; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are a large number of applicants for this school for September 2005; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that a number of applicants wishing to enter the school in September are diagnosed with ASD, ADHD and other behavioural difficulties; if her Department will consider the sanction of an additional teacher appointment to cater specifically for the needs of extra children with ASD and behavioural problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18572/05]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which was established recently and which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs, SEN, supports. An application for an additional teaching post has been received from the school in question. The matter is being examined by the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, in conjunction with my Department's inspectorate. The school authorities will be notified directly of the outcome in due course.