Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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219. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason an application for a laptop for a child (details supplied) in County Cork, which was recommended by the Health Service Executive, has been refused; if she will request that the matter be reconsidered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33750/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports. SENOs also make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support, which is set out in my Department's Circular 0010/2013.

In order to qualify for equipment under the assistive technology scheme, a child must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential in order to allow the child to access the curriculum. It must also be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs.

I can advise the Deputy that an application for assistive technology support for the child referred to in his question has been received in my Department. A response will issue to the school shortly following consideration of the application.