Richard Bruton
Question:209 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education if he has satisfied himself with the educational facilities available to children with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Educational Facilities for Disabled Children.
I am anxious to ensure that there is ongoing development of the educational services for children with special needs, including those with disabilities. Indeed, as the Deputy may be aware, there have been a number of recent initiatives under the Programme for Economic and Social Progress, targeted specifically at the needs of such children. These initiatives include: 80 additional remedial posts; seven new resource teacher posts; six additional visiting teacher posts; one new post of national education officer for traveller children, and a reduction in the pupil/teacher ratio in a range of special schools.
I will be keeping the development of services in this area under continuous review and I will be taking into consideration the recommendations of the special education review committee when that group furnishes its report.