John Paul O'Shea (Cork North-West, Fine Gael)
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293. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a national school pupil in County Kerry (details supplied) will be provided with assisted technology; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [66802/25]

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 Department has not received an application for assistive technology in respect of the student referred to by the Deputy. However, officials from my Department have engaged with the school and the Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) with a view to progressing this matter.