Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 27 Nov 1996

Vol. 472 No. 2

Written Answers. - Ministerial Response.

Declan Bree

Ceist:

131 Mr. Bree asked the Minister for Education when she intends to reply to a letter from Deputy Bree dated 2 September 1996, regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if she will put a tracking system in place in her Department in order to ensure that letters are not mislaid and to ensure a prompt response to Members of the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22909/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I am aware of the correspondence referred to by the Deputy which was acknowledged and which concerns provision of computer equipment for a pupil with special needs. A final reply was not issued to his representations as my Department was not in a position to give a definitive decision as to whether the level of funding available would allow all applications to benefit.

Decisions on provision of computers or specialised equipment for pupils with special needs are based on priority of need and the level of financial resources available. This process takes place towards the end of the year. The level of funding available this year for the purchase of such equipment is only now becoming clear.

As soon as a decision is made in the case in question, a final reply will issue to the Deputy.

A tracking system for correspondence from Members of the Houses of the Oireachtas is in existence in my Department.