Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 441: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the extent of the need in respect of remedial, resource or other special needs teachers at all primary and second level schools throughout County Wexford; her proposals to approve the necessary staff increases to meet this need; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38859/05]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 442: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of special needs teachers appointed to each of the schools throughout County Wexford; the number still required; her proposals to meet this requirement in full at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38861/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 441 and 442 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that the information regarding the number of special education teachers appointed to each school throughout County Wexford is not readily available within my Department. I can confirm, however, that at primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

At second level, approximately 1,628 whole-time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to approximately 200 teachers who were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 532 whole time equivalent learning support teachers in our second level schools.

I can confirm to the Deputy that I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, ensure that all children with special needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.