Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 November 2013
133. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding assistive technology in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48040/13]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports. SENOs also make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support, which is set out in my Department's Circular 0010/2013.
In order to qualify for equipment under the assistive technology scheme, a child must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential in order to allow the child to access the curriculum. It must also be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.
I can confirm that an application for assistive technology support for the child referred to by the Deputy has been received in my Department. This application is currently being processed. Further information has been requested from the SENO and a response will issue to the school as soon as possible thereafter, once this information has been received.
