Vol. 559 No. 6
60 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science the consultation he has had or plans to have, with interest groups regarding the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26717/02]
Following the general election I decided that, rather than proceed with the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2002, I would allow more time for further consultation among all those interested in this important legislation. To this end my Department contacted organisations which had made submissions on the Bill as originally published, inviting them to meet to discuss it further. In addition, my Department placed advertisements in the national press inviting submissions from all interested parties. Thirteen submissions have been received from organisations and individuals interested in the Bill and officials of my Department have to-date met with 19 organisations who requested a meeting. The consultation process has been very useful and constructive and from it I hope to bring forward legislation which will be rights based and child centred and which will recognise the unique place which parents have in their children's education.
I intend to bring proposals for revised legislation to Government early in the new year with a view to publishing a Bill in March.
