Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
178. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Education and Skills if matters raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied) regarding an outstanding July provision payment will receive a response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12041/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department's July Provision Scheme provides funding for an extended school year for students with a severe/profound general learning disability and/or students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The scheme was developed to reduce potential regression in learning associated with these specific categories of special education needs over the summer holidays.
The terms and conditions relating to the operation of the scheme are made available to Parents and Tutors in advance of commencement of the tuition in a variety of documents and are also published on my Departments website.
In some cases, it may be evident that tuition was not delivered in line with the terms and conditions of the scheme. Where this occurs payment is withheld and the parent or tutor has the right to appeal the decision. In this particular case the decision was made to release the payment that had been withheld. However, due to the Covid-19 outbreak and the working arrangements currently in place, some payments have been delayed. The relevant section is now dealing with this and the payment will be issued as soon as possible.
