Vol. 498 No. 3
171 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of centres funded by his Department that will provide out of school hour activities for persons with an intellectual disability which can help to develop the skills necessary for independent living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27121/98]
My Department's input to the development of independent living skills for persons with intellectual disabilities is confined to in-school programmes. The development of skills in the areas of mobility, dress, food, hygiene and health and safety are an integral part of the curriculum.
My Department also funds part-time teaching hours in 17 vocational training centres and 31 centres run by the National Training and Development Institute. These centres cater for adults with a general learning disability. The teaching hours sanctioned by my Department form part of a programme devised by the management of each centre to assist trainees develop appropriate life skills.
