Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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93. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to clarify the procedure regarding appeals of appeals in relation to the provision of augmentative and alternative communication (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24754/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Under the Assistive Technology Scheme, as set out in my Department’s Circular 0010/2013, funding is provided to schools towards the cost of computers and specialist equipment, which are required for educational purposes.

All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who, in order to access the school curriculum, require essential specialist equipment. It must be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs. Where necessary, schools may also purchase new or additional equipment or software for students from normal school resources or funds.

The type of equipment provided under the Assistive Technology Scheme is varied, and includes audiological supports for students with hearing impairment, braille equipment for children with visual impairment, and computer equipment with associated modified software for students with physical or severe communicative disabilities.

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is not regarded as a specific educational intervention or as equipment specifically required as essential for school educational access. As they have a general application outside of school, AAC is not provided for under the Assistive Technology Grant Scheme. AAC is provided for children with disabilities by the Health Service Executive (HSE), and queries regarding the appeals process for ACC should be directed to the Department of Health.