Special Educational Needs Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Questions (272)

Willie O'Dea

Question:

272. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 91 of 22 May 2013, if he will clarify his reply regarding the subject of the July provision scheme for families of autistic children as regards those with more than one child where he states the note accompanying the application forms provides this clarity, which it has been pointed out to this Deputy is not the case; if siblings grouped in line with school based provision will receive 25 hours tuition per week for July in line with school based provision; if he will outline the maximum number of siblings that will be required to share home based tuition, confirm the position as regards a family which is unable to find a tutor to commit to providing tuition to siblings before 12 June, advise what he considers to be a significant age or ability when allocating hours for siblings and define the way this will be determined and confirm the advice his Department sought on this change in policy; if the policy document will be made available and the way the policies will be applied by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26999/13]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that the policy in relation to siblings has not changed. Rather the application process in previous years may have in some instances failed to identify adequately multiple applications for siblings. My Department's Information Note for Home Based July Provision notes that allocations to siblings are reflective of the school grouping principle. This is where one teacher is allocated to a class of six pupils at the appropriate educational level, primary or post primary. Accordingly it is considered appropriate, as in a school situation, that a tutor can provide tuition at the appropriate educational level to more than one sibling at that level simultaneously in the home. The Department's website and information material is being amended to further clarify the position. The school grouping principle does not purport to replicate or mirror all aspects of school based provision. There is no commitment under the July Provision scheme to provide 25 hours either to an individual child or to siblings. The age or ability of siblings is reflected in their education level as determined by education and health professionals. In general where a child is receiving their education in a class setting with other children of mixed age and ability, this should carry through to their July Provision. Parents who are experiencing difficulties in sourcing a fully qualified teacher are advised to contact the officials dealing with their allocation as tutors with alternative qualifications and experience may be accepted in some instances.