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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 Feb 2003

Vol. 562 No. 3

Written Answers - Legislative Programme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

51 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects to publish the education of persons with disabilities Bill; the principal ways in which it will differ from the previous Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5836/03]

Last June I undertook a process of consultation on legislation to provide for the education of children and adults who have special educational needs. I decided not to proceed with the Bill which had been published earlier that year and passed by Seanad Éireann before the general election as concern had been expressed by representative groups for people with disabilities that more time was needed for consultation. My Department placed advertisements in the press inviting submissions. A total of 39 groups and individuals responded to the invitation for submissions and 21 groups met with officials of my Department for detailed discussions on their submissions. This phase of consultation is now complete and I intend to bring revised proposals for a Bill to Government in March.

The Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2002 which was published last year, was widely supported for its rights based approach to the education of children with special educational needs arising from a disability. However, those representing the interests of people with disabilities had concerns about certain elements of the legislation and it was to allow for discussion on, and resolution of, these concerns that the further consultation was engaged in.

My objective is to bring forward legislation which will guarantee that the needs of children arising from a disability are identified and that they are provided with an education appropriate to their needs as early as possible in their lives; ensure that adults with special educational needs have access to the education and related services and supports they need; ensure that parents have a central role in their child's education; and ensure that the various agencies involved in providing for special education and related support services are required to act within specified time limits.

I also propose that the legislation will build on and strengthen the structures set out in the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2002, especially the National Council for Special Education and the Special Education Appeals Board. It will also be an objective for revised legislation that it will closely dovetail where necessary with legislation being prepared by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform relating to the broader issue of services for people with disabilities.

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