Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
207. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Education if she will reassess the use of the IQ component criteria when assessing students who apply for assistive technology on the basis that these criteria are outdated and refers to an old circular; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8884/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Assistive Technology Scheme is provided by my Department to supplement the overall approach to providing funding to schools for digital technology and equipment to support children for education purposes. Full details of the scheme are contained in the Department’s Circular 0010/2013.
All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who require essential specialist equipment in order to access the school curriculum.
It must be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs. Where necessary, schools may also purchase new or additional equipment or software for students from normal school resources or funds.
Assistive technology is a critical enabler for those with special educational needs to gain the maximum benefit from a modern technologically focused education system. Where children with more complex disabilities require essential specialist equipment to access the school curriculum, which they do not already have, or which cannot be provided for them through the schools existing provisions, schools may make an application for such equipment to the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) under the terms of this scheme.
In order to qualify for equipment under the Assistive Technology Scheme, a student 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 student to access the curriculum.
The type of equipment provided under the Assistive Technology Scheme is varied, and includes audiological supports for students with hearing impairment, braille equipment for children with visual impairment, and computer equipment with associated modified software for students with physical or severe communicative disabilities.
Communication devices or medical or therapy related devices which are not specific educational interventions or equipment specifically required as essential for school educational access, and which have a general application outside of school, are not provided for under the Assistive Technology scheme, however. Such equipment is normally provided for children with disabilities by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The Department is currently reviewing the Assistive Technology Scheme to ensure that it is working for these children and that the resources are allocated appropriately and as efficiently as possible. The review in ongoing and is expected to complete later this year.
