Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 491: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of children with a speech or language disorder attending specialist language classes, itemised on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31026/06]

Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 492: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of specialist language classes which are currently in place at both primary and secondary school level, itemised on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31027/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 491 and 492 together.

I can confirm to the Deputy that there are currently 58 special classes for children with specific speech and language disorder in primary schools nationwide catering for approximately 400 children. There are currently no such classes at post primary level. The classes generally operate at a pupil teacher ratio of 7:1. I will arrange to send a list of these classes directly to the Deputy.

Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 493: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the regulations which govern the allocation of travel or other assistance to children or young people attending specialist language classes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31028/06]

Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 494: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of those attending specialist language classes who were in receipt of travel or other assistance for each school year since 2000; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31029/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 493 and 494 together.

My Department's policy is that children who meet the eligibility criteria for special class/special school placement should be provided with transport under the school transport scheme. My Department does not retain the specific information requested by the Deputy concerning the number of children attending specialist language classes who were in receipt of travel or other assistance for each school year since 2000.