1531. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she intends to issue an updated circular regarding the 'scheme of grants towards the purchase of essential assistive technology equipment for pupils with physical or communicative disabilities'; the timeline for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63780/26]

The Assistive Technology Scheme provides grant aid to schools towards the purchase of essential specialist equipment for pupils who require such supports in order to access the school curriculum. The current scheme operates under Circular 0010/2013.

My Department has undertaken a comprehensive review of the Assistive Technology Scheme. The review has focused on streamlining the application process, updating eligibility criteria and moving from a diagnosis-based approach to a more needs-based model of support, thereby providing schools with greater flexibility in identifying and supporting pupils' needs.

It is intended that the review will culminate in the publication of an updated circular and the launch of a new online application process for schools. The revised scheme is currently expected to launch in the coming weeks. However, this timeline is dependent on the new online application system, which is currently in the final stages of development, being fully operational and ready for deployment on that date.

Department officials continue to work closely with the system developers to ensure that the updated application process is delivered as soon as possible. The revised scheme will provide a more streamlined application experience for schools while ensuring that pupils who require assistive technology supports can continue to access them in a timely manner.