Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 February 2022
478. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Education when a decision will be made in relation to the provision of assisted technology to two siblings (details supplied) who attend a school in County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8409/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Assistive Technology scheme, as set out in my Department’s Circular 0010/2013, funding is provided to schools towards the cost of computers and specialist equipment, which are required for educational purposes.
All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who, in order to access the school curriculum, require essential specialist equipment.
The 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. SENOs also make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology/specialised equipment is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support.
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. It must also be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.
Schools make applications directly to the SENO, providing details of the student’s special educational needs or disability, including details of the approach taken by the school in making relevant interventions.
SENOs will review the application, and professional reports provided in support of same, in order to establish whether the criteria of the scheme have been met. They will then make a recommendation to my Department as to whether or not assistive technology is required; and based on this recommendation, my Department will decide on the level of grant, if any, to be provided.
Although equipment is sanctioned under the Assistive Technology scheme for use by particular students, it is the property of the school, and the school’s management authority is responsible for maintenance, repair, and insurance of the equipment.
The Special Education section in my Department have not received any application for the named children.
My officials have contacted the SENO who is responsible for the Sligo area where the siblings mentioned are attending school, and she has confirmed that she has not received an application for Assistive Technology in respect of these pupils.
All schools have the contact details of their local SENO and parents are encouraged to discuss their Children's needs with the SENO whose contact details can be accessed at: ncse.ie/regional-services-contact-list.
