Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 727: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if the National Council for Special Education has submitted a report to his Department regarding future policy on deaf education; if not, when it is expected this report will be submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28975/08]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 728: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of deaf children enrolled at primary and secondary school levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28976/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 727 and 728 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department currently provides an extensive range of supports for pupils with hearing impairment. While the specific information requested by the Deputy in relation to pupil numbers is not available, I can confirm that there are currently 10 special classes for pupils with hearing impairment attached to mainstream primary schools, 1 special class at post-primary level and 3 special schools. An enhanced capitation grant is provided to the special schools and special classes with hearing impaired pupils and grant-aid is available towards the special equipment needs of pupils. The 2008 rate for children with hearing impairment is €857 per pupil, while for profoundly deaf children it is €880 per pupil. The pupil teacher ratio in these special classes is 7:1.

In line with my Department's policy that children with special educational needs (SEN) access appropriate education intervention in mainstream settings where possible, many deaf/hearing impaired pupils are integrated into mainstream classes at primary and post-primary level with the assistance, as necessary, of resource teaching and special needs assistant support.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has commissioned an external, high-level review of the issues surrounding deaf education. This review will focus on models of provision with reference to evidenced-based outcomes and the implications of adopting different approaches. It is expected that the review will be completed before the end of the year.