John Perry
Question:181 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will address the concerns raised by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13198/04]
View answerTuesday, 11 May 2004
Questions (151)
Written answers
I have received a submission from the IPPN about the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill and have considered it in the context of the preparation of amendments for Committee Stage. I note the contents of the letter submitted to the Deputy by the person in question and feel the issues raised by that letter coincide with those I have already considered.
During Committee Stage of the Bill I introduced a number of proposals intended to better reflect in the legislation the proper role of principals. The Bill now reiterates the right of principals to delegate their functions to members of their staff. Principals will also have a right to the assistance of SENOs in carrying out their duties if they feel that is required. In addition, where a principal considers that the assessment of a child believed to have special needs is not practicable or that an education plan prepared by the school will not meet a child's needs, he or she can request the council to arrange the assessment or plan. The voice of principals in the new National Council for Special Education will also be ensured as the Bill now provides for the membership of the consultative forum to include principals' representative organisations.
I am conscious that this Bill will increase the overall workload within schools and, for the needs of schools to be met, the Bill provides for a five year implementation period and plan. I draw the Deputy's attention to section 12 of the Bill which provides that the resources necessary for the preparation and implementation of education plans will be made available to schools.
The Bill has completed Committee Stage in Dáil Éireann and will go to Report Stage very shortly, at which time there will be a further opportunity to discuss the issues raised as a result of the Deputy's question.