I propose to take Questions Nos. 302 and 304 together.
I have referred to the establishment of the central directorate for the dispersal of asylum seekers and direct provision on a number of occasions in this House.
A primary function of the directorate will be to ensure that facilities and support services are available to asylum seekers who are dispersed throughout the country and that the proper structures and procedures will be in place to allow for its smooth operation.
In relation to the issue of English language tuition, education for asylum seeking children in the normal school going age range is provided in the nearest convenient schools, primary or post-primary as appropriate. The education provided includes the teaching of English.
Where the numbers of these children having significant deficits in the English language would warrant it, the Department of Education and Science is prepared to sanction additional teaching resources in the schools concerned for the purpose of remedying such deficits. Asylum seeking students may avail of the normal school transport provided.
While the Department of Education and Science does provide support for the provision of English language tuition for adults granted refugee status, such provision is not made for adult asylum seekers.
Health boards provide financial supports to certain pre-school services which cater for children who are regarded as being at risk or disadvantaged. In individual cases, the boards also fund places in privately run facilities to cater for such children.