Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 January 2014
664. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health if his Department classifies dyscalculia as a disability and compiles statistics on the number of persons in the State who have been diagnosed with dyscalculia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2940/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraDyscalculia is a specific developmental disorder characterised by difficulty in learning or comprehending arithmetic and frequently involves difficulties with time, measurement, and spatial reasoning. I understand that the Department of Education and Skills classifies dyscalculia as a Specific Learning Disability (SLD). I am also advised that all primary and post-primary schools have been allocated additional teaching resources, under the General Allocation Model (GAM), to cater for children with high incidence special educational needs, including Specific Learning Disabilities. I understand that the Department of Education and Skills provides funding for the purchase of specialised equipment such as computers and/or software to assist children with special educational needs, including children with SLDs, once relevant professionals recommend the equipment as being essential for the provision of education.
My Department does not compile statistics on the numbers of people in the State who have been diagnosed with dyscalculia.
