621. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Youth If she will consider the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied) relating to assistive technology supports for a primary school student. [65516/26]

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 IT 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.

Under the terms of Circular 0010/2013, schools must await approval from the Department before purchasing equipment. Once approval has been granted, the school may purchase the approved equipment and subsequently submit a claim for reimbursement to the Department, together with the required documentation and proof of payment.

In relation to the case referred to by the Deputy, a decision letter issued to the school on 25 June 2026. The school was advised of the equipment approved and the funding available under the scheme. The Department's claims process requires that approved equipment be purchased by the school in the first instance and that reimbursement is claimed afterwards. The current arrangements do not provide for advance payment of funding to schools.