Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 6

Written Answers. - Special Needs Education.

Mary Wallace

Question:

164 Miss M. Wallace asked the Minister for Education the measures, if any, taken to implement the objectives of the UN's Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3527/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The guiding principle that informs the Framework for Action on Special Needs Education is that: "...schools should accommodate all children regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic or other conditions."

The White Paper on Education, Charting our Education Future, sets out the Government's policy for the provision of suitable education services for pupils with a disability in either special educational facilities or in an integrated environment.

The fundamental objective of the commitment in the White Paper is to ensure to the maximum possible extent that all children with disabilities will have access to suitably resourced education services in their own area and within the ordinary school system. The degree to which integration can be achieved will depend on the specific and evolving capacities of the individual children concerned.

The special educational needs of pupils with a physical or mental disability are generally capable of being met within the ordinary school system with the assistance, where necessary, of a remedial resource or visiting teacher for the handicapped. In more severe cases, provision may have to be made for pupils in special classes or schools dedicated to the particular special need. The White Paper outlines substantial education provisions for children with special needs.

I am satisfied that the measures outlined in the White Paper demonstrate this Government's commitment to the objectives of the UN's Salamanca Statement and Framework for Action on Special Needs Education.