Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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71. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the possibility of introducing basic ISL skills into mainstream primary schools with a view to broadening use of the language will be examined in view of the passing of the Irish Sign Language Act 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42022/18]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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The Act provides inter alia that the Minister will establish a scheme for the provision of Irish Sign Language (ISL) classes for the family of deaf children and education and support for children whose primary language is ISL attending recognised schools; and training for teachers of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The redevelopment of the entire primary school curriculum commenced in 2016 but in view of the passing of the Irish Sign Languages Act 2017, ISL is being considered as part of this ongoing process.

Many pupils who are Deaf or hard of hearing are integrated into mainstream classes at primary and post-primary level, while other children may attend special schools or classes. In line with the Act, the Department provides for a range of supports to assist these pupils.

The NCSE's Visiting Teacher Service for children who are Hearing Impaired, work in partnership with parents to advise and offer guidance in matters pertaining to the child’s education and overall development. The NCSE also provides funding for individual teachers and whole school staff in mainstream schools, special schools, and special classes to undertake courses in Irish Sign Language.

The Department provides funding to schools for assistive technology, special transport arrangements and enhanced levels of capitation in special schools and in special classes. The Department also provides funding for a weekly home tuition service to provide training in ISL for deaf and hard of hearing children, their siblings and parents.

The 2018 Comprehensive review of the Special Needs Assistant Scheme made a number of recommendations relating to deaf or hard of hearing pupils including provision of qualified assistants in schools and to seek to ensure that there are a sufficient number of educational placements offering ISL training for teachers of such pupils. In line with the review and the requirements of the Act, a scheme will be developed to implement these recommendations.