Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will, of course, keep the Deputy informed.

In County Clare also, there are 47 special classes. Two were opened this September. There are also 15 special classes at post-primary level, two of which were opened this year. A number of the children in those special classes in County Clare and throughout the country probably will be looking for assistance. It is important to stress the school management authorities must apply and qualify for the assistive technology scheme. As Deputy Carey stated, a student must be diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must have a recommendation as part of a professional assessment that the equipment is essential to allow the student to access the curriculum. Overall, the fact we have extra funding of €2 million in the budget means extra supports will be available for the children. When we visit schools, it is incredible to see children with additional needs progressing and being able to learn through technological devices in a way they might not have been able to do in the absence of such support.

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