Chris Andrews (Dublin South East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 273: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of requests received for special needs assistants in private junior schools in 2005, 2006 and to date in 2007. [23063/07]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department provides for special education resources to State recognised schools to ensure that children have access to an appropriate education with additional supports as necessary. These resources are provided through the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and the local Special Educational Needs Organisers.

The Deputy should be aware that private junior schools are not State recognised schools. The information requested by the Deputy is not retained by my Department. I will forward the Deputy's question to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply in the event that they keep a record of such requests.