Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
235. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason the home tuition support grant was refused for a child (details supplied), despite extensive evidence given by primary school and psychologists in relation to her assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8878/26]
View answerThe purpose of the Home Tuition Grant Scheme is to provide funding towards the provision of a compensatory educational service for:
Pre-School Children with autism who meet the scheme’s eligibility criteria
Children seeking a Special School or Special Class placement
Students, enrolled in schools, with a significant medical condition, which has caused, and is likely to continue to cause, major disruption to their attendance at school
Students, enrolled in schools, with school phobia and/or associated depression/anxiety, which has caused, and is likely to continue to cause, major disruption to their attendance at school
In relation to categories d) where an application is received in respect of a student with a diagnosis of school phobia and/or associated depression/anxiety, the principle that home tuition cannot be provided as an alternative to school applies.
Eligibility under these categories is assessed having regard to, although not limited to, the following criteria:
• The student’s attendance levels during the previous school year.
• Psychologist’s/psychiatrist’s report which should (i.) Clearly confirm a diagnosis of school phobia and/or associated depression/anxiety. (ii.) Provide details of medical or therapeutic intervention plans in place with a view to reintegrate the student back into his/her school.
• Details of engagement with the relevant support agencies (e.g., School, National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS), Education Welfare Officer (EWO), Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), TUSLA (Child and Family Agency), HSE, NCSE).
In relation to the case referred to by the Deputy, and as detailed in the decision letter issued to the parent on 27 January 2026, the child in question did not meet the eligibility criteria for Home Tuition. Based on the attendance data provided by the school for the 2024/2025 academic year, the Department was not in a position to sanction the grant.
As outlined in the decision letter, parents may appeal this decision. Appeals should be submitted in writing to the address below, quoting the Home Tuition (HT) Reference Number. The submission should outline the grounds for the appeal and include any relevant additional documentation or reports.
Address: Special Education Section, Department of Education and Youth, Cornamaddy, Atlone, County Westmeath, N37 X659
Email: special_education@education.gov.ie
Telephone: (090) 648 4187
