Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2024
29. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Education if supports are available for schools to purchase specialised indoor equipment for students who require regular movement breaks and are prevented from going outside due to weather; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38001/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department funds the purchase of specialised furniture and equipment for children with special educational needs. A School can apply for specialised furniture or equipment for students with special educational needs who are enrolled in the school. This includes furniture for a particular child's postural and toileting needs which assists the students in managing their day to day needs and facilitates their access to the curriculum. Certain items, including wheelchairs and sensory items, are not included in this scheme.
The needs of children with special educational needs are highly sensitive and individualised and my Department deals with applications of this nature on a case-by-case basis. For this small cohort of children, part of the application process requires the submission of an Occupational Therapist’s report which details the individual requirements of a child and allows my Department to provide funding at the appropriate level to meet the child's identified needs.
