Vol. 499 No. 1
929 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial assistance available to cover the costs of private remedial teaching for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact the services of a remedial teacher are not available at his school; and the schemes, if any, in place to assist parents of these children. [1276/99]
I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. I have asked my Department's inspectorate to investigate the needs of this pupil and to report on how these needs can best be addressed. I recently announced a major initiative to tackle education disadvantage at all levels. As part of this initiative, I have arranged for a remedial teacher service to be made available to all primary schools with effect from September 1999. Mainstream schools with a pupil-teacher ratio of below 10:1, and which currently have no service, may apply for a service where they can demonstrate the particular needs of their pupils.
930 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number and location of primary schools in County Offaly without the services of a remedial teacher; if these schools will have remedial teaching services by September 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1322/99]
931 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number and location of primary schools in County Laois without the services of a remedial teacher; if these schools will have remedial teaching services by September 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1323/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 930 and 931 together.
There are three primary schools in County Offaly which do not have a remedial teaching service. The schools concerned are: Osmann N.S., Oxman Town, Birr; Crinkle N.S., Birr, and Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada, Sráid na hÉiglise, Tulach Mhór.
