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

This needs to be discussed in more depth with the Department. Officials in the Department are aware of the benefits of RPM but at the same time they say that there is no clear empirical evidence to underpin it and that the guidance suggests that a range of supports may need to be adopted for each child. Schools are not prohibited from using RPM but it will not necessarily be for every child and there are supports available for students who are non-verbal under the assistive technology scheme as well, which the Deputy will be aware of. All schools have access to IT funding to purchase assistive technology and, where necessary, schools may also purchase new or additional equipment or software, which will be more bespoke to a particular child, from existing school resources or funds. Then schools that have children with more complex disabilities can make an application for such equipment to the NCSE.

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