Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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802. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding support required in respect of a person in County Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1377/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that children with special educational needs are eligible for school transport if they are attending the nearest recognised: mainstream school, special class, special school or a unit, that is or can be resourced, to meet their special educational needs under Department of Education and Skills' criteria.

I understand that the child in question is availing of my Department's school transport scheme and also that the pupil is supported by a Bus Escort in doing so. The Bus Escort provides assistance to support this child's care needs while he is being transported to and from school.

While attending the school, the child's care needs are then provided for through Special Needs Assistance support.

My Department therefore provides care supports to support this child's transportation and attendance at school, in addition to providing for educational teaching support.

If it is considered that additional heath care related nursing assistance is also required, in addition to the care supports which have been provided, an application for such support should be made to the Health Service Executive (HSE) who has responsibility for the provision of nursing services.

Questions relating to the provision of such health care services may also be addressed to the HSE, or to my colleague, the Minister for Health.