Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 6

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

372 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the research, if any, his Department has carried out which would indicate that a higher percentage than average of juvenile offenders suffer from the symptoms of dyslexia; if so, if he will provide a copy of this research; and, if not, the plans, if any, he has to carry out this research. [25141/99]

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

373 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the research carried out with juvenile delinquents at a centre outside Edinburgh, Scotland, which was made available to the Home Secretary and indicated that 50 per cent of those surveyed suffered from the symptoms of dyslexia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25142/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 372 and 373 together.

My Department has not carried out any specific research which would indicate a higher than average incidence of symptoms of dyslexia among juvenile offenders. All juvenile offenders placed in the custodial facilities operated under my Department undergo detailed assessment of all aspects of their needs, including their educational needs. The educational programmes delivered in these facilities are very broadly based and take account of the wide range of needs and abilities of the children in question. Individualised education and care programmes are developed for each child and any special educational needs are addressed as part of these programmes. The educational progress of all children is monitored by my Department's inspectorate.

My Department's policy in relation to the identification of children with specific learning disability, including dyslexia, is in line with the recommendations of the special education review committee which reported in 1993. The criteria involved include assessment by a psychologist on a standardised test of intelligence which places general intellectual ability within the average range or above; and performance in basic literacy skills in relation to objective criteria using standardised tests.

It would generally be expected that not more than 2 per cent of the overall pupil population would be found in this category.

While it is generally recognised that many children involved in juvenile delinquency and coming to the attention of the courts are found to have very low levels of educational attainment, the particular research to which the Deputy refers has not come to the attention of my Department. However, inquiries will be made into the matter.