Special Educational Needs.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2005

Wednesday, 4 May 2005

Ceisteanna (445, 446)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

472 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be offered an ABA tutor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14290/05]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which was established recently and which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs, SEN, supports. Seventy-one special educational needs organisers, SENOs, have been recruited throughout the country and will be a focal point of contact for schools and parents. I have made arrangements to have the matter referred to the local SENO who will make contact with the parents of the child in question.

Joe Walsh

Ceist:

473 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the retention of a special needs assistant at a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [14291/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which was established recently and which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs, SEN, supports. Seventy-one special educational needs organisers, SENOs, have been recruited throughout the country and will be a focal point of contact for schools and parents. The matter has been referred to the local SENO who will make contact with the school authorities regarding it.