School Discipline

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021

Tuesday, 2 November 2021

Ceisteanna (512)

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Ceist:

512. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Education if she will conduct a joint working group or team to investigate and resolve a complex case of a child (details supplied) who has been de facto excluded from school with no access to home schooling and who has been refused a section 29 appeal apparently as a result of a conflict between recommendations, processes and procedures of different medical, educational and disability services provided by the State; if she can identify a mechanism of appeal, arbitration and resolution for such complex cases in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52518/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education (Deputy Josepha Madigan)

My Department is aware of this case. My officials understand that there are conflicting medical recommendations in relation to the type of equipment to be used in the school to support the child’s attendance there.

The local SENO is working with the School and the family and other services to resolve the matter and ensure that this child can access his educational placement. It is my Department’s understanding a meeting took place between relevant professionals and agencies last week to work through the issues and progress has been made.

In view of the exceptional circumstances of this case, my Department has approved Home Tuition funding for a limited period pending the resolution of the issues involved.

In relation to the section 29 appeal application received by the Department, my officials have been advised that the pupil had not been suspended from the school and remains welcome to attend. On that basis, as no suspension has taken place, an appeal under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 does not apply. The parent was informed that the section 29 appeal was not admitted on the basis that no suspension is in place.

My officials will continue to work with the relevant agencies to support a return to school for this child as a matter of priority.