Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response and I welcome the aspects on which he reported in the reply. Is he aware that there are over 2,000 families in Down Syndrome Ireland and most of their children go to either mainstream primary or second level schools? At present, a child with Down's syndrome is put into one of two categories: the mild learning disability or moderate learning disability. A score of 49 or less for moderate learning disability will give one the resource hours. Many parents tell me that when they go to the assessments they hope their child will score 49 or less because they know then they will get the resource hours. Why does a child with Down's syndrome not automatically qualify for resource hours or a special needs assistant to help him or her navigate through the mainstream school? Why must such children fail assessments in order to have a chance of getting the resources they require? Why is a child with Down's syndrome not rewarded for his or her achievements by providing him or her with all the necessary resources and assistance to build on and nurture these achievements? Finally, why is a child with Down's syndrome is not afforded every opportunity to reach his or her full potential and be at his or her best?

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