Emer Currie
Ceist:126. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current average processing time for assistive technology applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38037/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 20 May 2026
Ceisteanna (126)
Freagraí scríofa
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.
To do this, schools make applications directly to their local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO), providing details of the student’s special educational needs or disability, including details of the approach taken by the school in making relevant interventions.
To qualify for equipment under the Assistive Technology Scheme, a student must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential to allow the student to access the curriculum.
SENOs will review the application, and professional reports provided in support of same, to establish whether the criteria of the scheme have been met. They will then make a recommendation to my department as to whether or not assistive technology is required; and based on this recommendation, my department will decide on the level of grant, if any, to be provided.
My Department has received a large volume of applications for Assistive Technology, all of which are currently being processed. While the total number of applications received in 2026, and the current processing times for both primary and post-primary applications, are not readily available, these figures are being compiled and will be provided to the Deputy in the coming week.
My Department would like to reassure the Deputy that applications for equipment for students with hearing and/or visual impairments have been prioritised and there is currently no delay in the processing these applications. Sixth class pupils are also being prioritised to ensure that equipment is in place to assist with their transition to post-primary school. All other applications will be processed in accordance with the date that recommendations are received in the Department by the SENO.
Lastly, the Special Education section is currently finalising a review the Assistive Technology Scheme, with one of the key goals being to streamline the application process. This new process will be in place for the start of the next school year.