Olwyn Enright
Question:148 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will advise on the work to date of the National Council for Special Education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21028/04]
View answerThursday, 8 July 2004
Questions (154)
Written answers
The National Council for Special Education has been established as an independent statutory body with responsibilities as set out in the National Council for Special Education (Establishment) order, 2003). The order requires the council to undertake its full range of functions with effect from 1 October 2004.
The process of agreeing protocols for the transfer of specific functions and future operating procedures to the council is continuing between my Department and the council. I know that the council is in the process of establishing its headquarters and arranging the employment of special education needs organisers and other staff.
The Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2003 includes provision for a National Council for Special Education, which will supersede the existing council. It also provides that a wider and more specific range of functions be assigned to that council. While both the order and the Bill make formal provision for the council to report to the Minister for Education and Science on its activities, questions relating to specific operations should be directed to the council itself.