Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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433. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the issuing of assistive technology for a person (details supplied); the reasons for the delay; the actions that will be taken to rectify this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6426/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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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, including applications for assistive technology.

SENOs then make recommendations to my Department where assistive technology is required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in making recommendations for support, as set out in Circular 0010/2013 which is published on my Department’s website. www.education.ie/en/Circulars-and-Forms/Active-Circulars/cl0010_2013.pdf

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.

The application referred to by the Deputy was reviewed, with consideration given to the documentation provided, the criteria set out in Circular 0010/2013 and the Special Educational Needs Organiser’s observations and recommendations.

I am pleased to say that the application was approved for funding and the school has been informed.