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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Oct 2000

Vol. 523 No. 1

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

978 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide special needs education in September 2000 to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13 who has severe ADHD; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19275/00]

My Department is aware of the details of this case. Enrolment in second level schools is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of individual schools. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking second level places in an area. This may result in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

The National Educational Psychological Service is available to all post-primary schools recognised by my Department. NEPS can advise on the management of any difficulties that pupils might experience and which may present problems in a school setting. Where appropriate it can also advise on any educational supports which might be required to ensure that a pupil's time in school is as productive and positive as possible.

In order to progress this case further my Department has issued a questionnaire to the child's mother to help identify his educational needs and provide my Department with her written permission to contact schools and the NEPS on behalf of her child. My Department's inspectorate is also involved in this case. Every effort will be made to find a suitable school placement.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

979 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance that can be given to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo with learning difficulties to help her educational development. [19319/00]

An application for additional teaching resources to cater for the needs of the pupil referred to by the Deputy was recently received from the school authorities. The application has been referred to the National Educational Psychological Service for a report. As soon as the report has been received and considered my Department will be in communication with the school authorities on the matter.

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