Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 October 2004
344 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of NEPS psychologists employed in the mid-western region; the number that has been deemed appropriate for the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26515/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhen the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, was established in 1999, it drew up a development plan, based on student numbers in each region of the country. On this basis, NEPS estimates that 16 psychologists would be needed to support the population in the mid-western region. It has proved difficult to recruit psychologists to serve in some regions, including the mid-western region, where five psychologists are currently deployed by NEPS. NEPS management is making every effort to persuade new recruits to opt for the mid-west region.
345 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will publish the results of a study carried out by NEPS into learning support needs in Leitrim and Dundalk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26516/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn internal committee of my Department meets from time to time to ensure effective liaison in the area of special educational needs. It includes representatives of the inspectorate, special education section and the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS. As part of its work, the committee commissioned a screening project with the aim of informing policy and practice on the effective use of resources to support children with special educational needs, including children with disabilities.
The project was overseen by NEPS, with assistance from the educational research centre in St Patrick's College, Drumcondra. It involved the assessment of all pupils in second to sixth class in mainstream primary schools in the town of Dundalk and in the county of Leitrim. Teachers in 55 schools administered group tests of cognitive ability and of reading and mathematical attainment to 3,897 pupils and also completed questionnaires on individual pupils, on concerns not amenable to normal screening methods.
Statistical analysis of the results has proved to be time consuming, but I understand that the final report on the project will be presented to me before the end of 2004. I shall consider the findings in the report with my officials and decide on the appropriate response.
