Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2015
243. Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the proposed new model, effective from September 2015, for the allocation of resource hours in schools; if her attention has been further drawn to the fact that the Irish National Teachers Organisation has stated these proposals will affect every child within the school environment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5221/15]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that, the National Council for Special Education published its Report on a Proposed New Model for Allocating Teachers for Students with Special Educational Needs on 18th June 2014.
This Report was prepared by a Working Group, appointed by the NCSE and Chaired by Mr Eamon Stack, which included representatives from disability organisations and also parent representative bodies.
An extensive consultation process was undertaken by the Working Group with stakeholders to inform the development of its report. Consultation meetings were held with the Health Service Executive, teachers, principals, union officials, parents, school management bodies, National Educational Psychological Services, advocacy groups, the Inspectorate, and Special Educational Needs Organisers.
Subsequent to the publication of the NCSE working group report, my Department invited education partners, stakeholders, and parent representative groups to make written submissions in relation to the NCSE report. 29 such written submissions have been received to date, including a submission from the Irish National Teachers Organisation.
In October last year, officials at my Department held consultations with primary and post primary management bodies, teacher organisations, groups representing those with disabilities and parents' representatives. Officials again met with representatives from these groups on 20th, 22nd and 30th of January last in order to further consult with these bodies.
A decision has not been taken on the commencement date for the proposed new model. I can confirm that officials have advised all stakeholders that there will be ongoing consultation with them as the work on the development of the model progresses.
