Special Educational Needs Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020

Tuesday, 23 June 2020

Ceisteanna (547)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

547. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health if the commitment given in 2017 by him to a school (details supplied) that the HSE will not reduce or change the services provided and will not redeploy four clinical staff at the school including disciplines of psychology, speech and language therapy and social work until after a review of the school is complete, remains; if the school will continue to have these skilled professional staff to work with the children and young persons in the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12538/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Finian McGrath)

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy