Vol. 490 No. 7
273 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which he proposes to further enhance the mainstream educational opportunities for children with disabilities in 1998; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11343/98]
I am firmly committed to maximising the opportunities for special needs children to participate in the mainstream education system.
The Government's An Action Programme for the Millennium gives particular priority to this area through its commitment to equal opportunity and the priority it attaches to the provision of remedial teachers and resources for children with special learning difficulties.
Where special needs children are concerned, it is necessary to view each case on an individual basis. For many childern, the nature of their special need is such that they can function quite successfully in an integrated setting with the support, where necessary, of a remedial teacher, resource teacher or a visiting teacher.
I am currently reviewing provision across the special needs area, including supports for special needs children in mainstream schools. It is my intention to further enhance the supports provided to such children for the forthcoming school year.
