Vol. 488 No. 6
182 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the amendments put forward by the Irish Deaf Society to the Education Bill, 1997; and if he will introduce the measures outlined in its submission which would eliminate discrimination against deaf people in the education system. [6823/98]
I have noted carefully the amendments proposed by the Irish Deaf Society. Officials of my Department recently met representatives of the Deaf Society to discuss these proposals in more detail. I will be examining them carefully as the Bill progresses through the various legislative stages in the Oireachtas.
I emphasise that the Bill was produced following an extensive process of consultation with the partners in education. As a result, the Bill has received a generally warm welcome. I intend to continue this consultation process as the Bill proceeds through the Oireachtas.
183 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction the provision of a second language class in Greenmount national school, Cork. [6826/98]
Special classes for children with specific speech and language disorders are established where a need has been identified and supported by up-to-date psychological and speech therapy reports in respect of the children in question.
My Department is currently investigating the establishment of a second class for children with a speech and language disorder in the school referred to by the Deputy. The establishment of such a class will require the availability of a speech therapy service from the Southern Health Board. However, I understand that the health board is not in a position to provide a speech therapy service at present. My Department is in ongoing contact with the health board in relation to this matter.
184 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the non-availability of places for children with autism at Scoil Trieste, Lota, Cork; and the steps, if any, his Department will take to make additional places available. [6827/98]
I am aware of the difficulties referred to by the Deputy. Officials of my Department are engaged in consultation with the school authorities with a view to overcoming the difficulties and I hope that a suitable solution will be reached shortly.
