Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 May 2017
217. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Education and Skills the eligibility criteria for children to qualify for the July provision; the reason those children with a particular diagnosis (details supplied) do not qualify; his plans to introduce changes to extend the scheme to allow more children to qualify; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24275/17]
View answerThe eligibility criteria for the July Provision Grant Scheme 2017 is set out in the Department's Information Note on the scheme which was published with the application forms and is available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.
The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to examine the adequacy of current special education access and funding provision.
In addition the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) Policy Advice on Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders was published in July 2016.
In developing this policy advice, the NCSE reviewed the Department's July Provision scheme. The NCSE consulted widely with parents, professionals and other stakeholders and interested parties while also conducting research. The Policy advice is available on the NCSEs website www.ncse.ie.
The policy advice recommends that relevant stakeholders should discuss the development of an national, day activity scheme that provides a structured, safe, social environment for all students with complex special educational needs for one month of the summer holidays.
My officials will engage with officials in the Department of Social Protection, the Department of Health and other relevant stakeholders in regard to implementing this recommendation. There are no immediate plans to extend the existing July Provision Scheme while this process is ongoing.
