Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

179. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork whose parents have applied for a place for them in Scoil Aislinn on Boreenmanna Road, Cork, as it is the only school that would be able to deal with their needs; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that they are currently in SOLAS in Carrigaline which they are due to finish in June of this year and they cannot attend another special needs school because they do not have a learning disability; if he will ensure that this person gets a place in Scoil Aislinn school in September; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44263/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The child referred to by the Deputy is currently enrolled in a special school and it is understood that the child is due to transition at the end of the current school year. The Deputy will be aware that one of the functions of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is to provide support to schools, and parents/guardians of children with special educational needs. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

The role of the SENO in planning for the transition of children from one stage of schooling to another can include the provision of information to parents and or liaising between schools and parents. The NEPS psychologists can also be involved in supporting the transition of pupils with complex special needs. Information including general principles for planning for transitioning are also available on the NCSE website.