Executive failing the profoundly deaf
08 April 2013
Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:-
"Recently in the DEL Committee I queried the level of support for profoundly deaf students in our universities.
"An answer just received from Minister Farry confirms a sharp decline in the number of profoundly deaf enrolled in our universities over the last 5 years. In 2006/7, just before the Executive came to power, there were 240 enrolled students. Now, there are just 95!
"This dramatic decline, I believe, is due to a reduction in assistance by DEL to the universities to help meet the special needs of deaf students. Such a dramatic reduction in the ability to pursue third level education means the deaf are being failed by government. So much for a Programme for Government that boasts of opportunity for all.
"I am, therefore, calling on DEL to urgently review it's support for this disadvantaged sector, so that the deaf might adequately avail of educational opportunities."
