Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 February 2021
431. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Education the reason a child (details supplied) has been refused a grant for assistive technology even though it is deemed necessary by the child's teachers and occupational therapist and has been signed off by the special educational needs organiser; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8503/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports, including applications for assistive technology.
Special Needs Organisers (SENOs) make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support, as set out in my Department's Circular 0010/2013.
In order to qualify for equipment under the assistive technology scheme, a child must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential in order to allow the child to access the curriculum. It must also be clear that the existing IT equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.
An application for equipment in respect of this pupil under the Assistive Technology Scheme has been approved by my Department. An email will issue to the school detailing the level of grant payable.
