Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 9: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding her dealings in respect of staffing issues at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39531/10]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 11: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will direct the National Council for Special Education to provide adequate special needs assistance support for five pupils in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24, in light of the assessment carried out by the National Education Psychological Service in Easter 2010; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that 26 new pupils have enrolled in the school this year and that they may require further supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39550/10]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 9 and 11 together.

The Deputies will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent agency with responsibility for determining the appropriate staffing levels in relation to the support of pupils with special educational needs in all mainstream and special schools. The NCSE operates within my Department's policy in allocating this support.

I understand that the NCSE is presently liaising with the school in question to monitor supports in place for pupils currently enrolled in the school as well as evaluating further applications for support. The NCSE has advised my Department that it hopes to conclude this process shortly.

I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.