Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
521. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Education and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 530 of 24 February 2026, to provide an update on the review of the assistive technology scheme referenced, including the process being followed and the anticipated date for completion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29670/26]
View answerAs outlined in my department’s response to Parliamentary Question No. 530 of the 24th February 2026, official in my department are currently undertaking a review of the Assistive Technology Scheme with one of the key goals being to streamline the application process. It is intended that the review will culminate in the publication of a new circular and the launch of an updated online application process.
A key objective of the review will be to streamline the application process. This will be achieved through the implementation of a new portal for schools to submit applications, alongside a review of the eligibility criteria. By this, my department intends to move the scheme from a diagnosis-based approach to a more needs-based approach, thereby granting schools greater autonomy in determining whether a child requires assistive technology to access the curriculum.
It is anticipated that the circular will be issued shortly with the new application process up and running in the months following.
