Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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614. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) has been refused AIM level 7; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15235/17]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM), which is a new programme of supports to enable children with a disability to access and fully participate in the free pre-school programme, is administered by Pobal on behalf of this Department. The degree of support provided depends on the needs of the child availing of ECCE, in the context of the pre-school service registered with my Department.

My Department has made enquiries of Pobal in relation to this query and it is understood that an application was received for support - additional assistance in the pre-school room - under Level 7 of AIM. This was processed in accordance with the agreed protocols ensuring due process, fairness and equity. I understand that the outcome was that AIM Level 7 support was not found to be critical to enable this child to participate meaningfully in the ECCE programme. However Level 4 support was recommended.

Following a feedback phone call with a member of the Pobal team, a review request was submitted by the applicant. This review application and information submitted with it were all reviewed in line with the AIM Review Policy and the original decision was upheld, with Level 4 support again recommended. Level 4 support provides expert educational advice and support from an Early Years Specialist. The Early Years Specialist can, where necessary, visit the service and develop an individual Access and Inclusion Plan for the child within the pre-school setting, in conjunction with the parent and provider.

A further review can be requested if there is new information in relation to the application or a change of circumstances for either the child or the service.