75 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of times officials from his Department are in a position to review pupil placements in special education facilities; the level of liaison and consultation that exists prior to placement with parents of these children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6891/01]

Officials of my Department do not engage in reviewing individual pupil placements, but do monitor the quality of education in special education facilities on their visits to schools.

Pupils with assessed special educational needs are referred to special education facilities as a result of psychological and other assessments. Prior to such referral there is liaison and consultation between the parents of these children and those who assess them. Pupils may only be referred to special education facilities with the consent of their parents.

Pupil placements are monitored on an ongoing basis by their teachers and are reviewed as required by the assessment agencies that make the referrals.

Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 37.