Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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194. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will amend Circular 0010/2013 to allow for funding to be deposited into a school's account in order for it to purchase assistive technology equipment for eligible students, rather than the current scheme which puts pressure on smaller schools as they must purchase the equipment first and then be reimbursed, which creates situations where certain schools do not have the budget to purchase this equipment first and children are left without this necessary equipment. [53322/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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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 Assistive Technology Scheme, provided by my department, supplements the overall funding approach for digital technology and equipment to support children for education purposes. All equipment provided under this scheme supports children who require essential specialist equipment to access the school curriculum. For children with more complex disabilities who require such equipment to access the school curriculum, which they do not already have or which cannot be provided for them through the schools' existing provisions, schools can apply for this equipment under the terms of the Assistive Technology Scheme.

The Special Education section is currently reviewing the Assistive Technology Scheme, with one of the key goals being to streamline the application process. At present, schools are required to purchase the equipment upfront and submit receipts and a claim form to receive reimbursement. This process can place financial pressure on smaller schools, potentially delaying the child’s access to the said assistive technology.

As part of the ongoing review of the Assistive Technology scheme, all aspects of the application process are being examined. This includes the refund process, where consideration is being given to providing funds to schools in advance of equipment purchases. Not only will this change aim to streamline the application process but it will expedite the time in which children who require assistive technology receive their equipment.