Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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194. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of an application for assisted technology in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34533/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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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 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 confirm that an incomplete application for Assistive Technology was received for the child in question.  Officials from my Department have reverted to the SENO seeking further information to support the application.  On receipt of the requested information, a decision will issue to the school regarding this matter, following full consideration of the application.