142 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is proposed that a classroom assistant, approved in September 2003, will be appointed to assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18337/04]

My Department received an application for special needs assistant support for the pupil referred to by the Deputy on 3 October 2003. The school in question will be advised of the outcome of the application as soon as possible in advance of the 2004-05 school year.