Desmond J. O'Malley
Question:56 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Education if she will give details of her Department's areas of responsibility in relation to pupils with special needs. [10237/95]
Written Answers. - Pupils With Special Needs.
My Department has responsibility for ensuring that all pupils, regardless of their personal circumstances, have a right of access to and participation in the education system, according to their potential and ability.
The term "special needs" was defined by the Special Education Review Committee as including:
"All pupils whose disabilities and-or circumstances prevent or hinder them from benefiting adequately from the education which is normally provided for pupils of the same age, or for whom the education which can generally be provided in the ordinary classroom is not sufficiently challenging".
My Department has responsibility for ensuring that the diverse educational needs of all of these groups are adequately met. This involves the provision of a range of special support services tailored to the needs of pupils with disabilities and those whose socio-economic circumstances are such that special education supports are required.
In the case of children with disabilities, provision is made through a range of special schools and special classes and through the delivery of special support services in ordinary schools. In addition, a special school transport service is provided for pupils attending special schools and classes.
In the case of children from disadvantaged backgrounds, support is provided through the disadvantaged areas schemes, which target ex-quota teaching posts and extra funding for the schools concerned.
The measures set out in the White Paper in relation to special needs pupils are intended to refine and develop the current range of responses. A key objective will be to ensure that all children with special educational needs will have the opportunity of having these needs addressed in their own areas, wherever possible.
My Department is currently preparing an action plan to give effect to the objectives set out in the White Paper. This plan will identify the specific actions required and a time-frame for their implementation.