Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 May 2022
383. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education if her Department is working with the National Council for Special Education to identify children with additional needs but who have had incomplete assessments or who are on longer than average waiting lists within the HSE for assessments to ensure that their needs are met for enrolment in September 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27379/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Assessment of Need (AON) process is provided for under the Disability Act 2005. Assessment Officers under the remit of the HSE are charged with organising the Assessment of Need. The Assessment Officer makes the determination as to whether or not a child or young person meets the definition of disability contained in the act. The Assessment Officer coordinates and completes the Assessment Report.
Following a recent High Court ruling in October 2021 there is now a requirement on the education system to provide an assessment of Education Needs as part of the Assessment of Need Process.
My Department are working with the Department of Health, the NCSE and the HSE and taking legal advice. Officials in my Department are continuing to work through proposals to address the implications.
I expect to receive a proposal on the matter shortly.
