Eoin Ryan
Question:165 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Education whether there is a secondary level section for special education in her Department. [6758/97]
Written Answers. - Special Education Services.
There is no separate secondary level special education section in my Department.
Where special needs children are concerned, the nature and severity of the disability, rather than the chronological age of the child, is the key factor in determining the educational response. In some cases, special needs children are capable of being accommodated in ordinary primary or second level schools, with the help if necessary of remedial teachers, resource teachers or visiting teachers.
In cases involving more serious disabilities, placement in a special school or special class attached to an ordinary first or second level school, may be the most appropriate response. The special schools and special classes can cater for children from four to 18 years of age.
My Department's special education section plays the pivotal role in the development and delivery of special education services. Where appropriate, the special education section liaises with other sections in the Department at primary and post-primary level to ensure an effective and efficient delivery of special support services.
In the context of the measures outlined in the White Paper on Education, my Department is currently reviewing its overall approach to the delivery of special education services.