Tony Gregory
Ceist:679 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance requested by St. Vincent's, Navan Road, Dublin 7 for their July programme; and the response from his Department in this regard. [16799/02]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
A letter sent to my Department by St. Vincent's Navan Road, Dublin 7 in respect of their July programme sought funding for one co-ordinator, ten professionals, eight care assistants, one household staff and 0.5 of a clerical post. Support in respect of transport and social outings was also sought.
My Department's support package for July education programmes is available to all schools catering for children with severe/profound general learning disabilities who choose to extend their education services through the month of July. The package includes special nationally agreed rates of remuneration for teachers and special needs assistants involved in July programmes. Participating schools also receive a special rate of capitation funding in respect of pupils participating in the programme. Funding is also available to facilitate the provision of school transport and escort services for the children. All special schools were advised of the detailed funding arrangements applicable to July education programmes when the service was introduced in July, 2001.
I understand that a copy of the claim form on which funding for July education programmes is based has been forwarded to St. Vincent's and that a response is awaited.