Colm Keaveney
Question:136. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the proposed new special needs model will be implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8772/15]
View answerTuesday, 3 March 2015
Questions (136)
Written answers
I recently announced that I am not proposing to change the way teachers are allocated to schools for children with Special Educational Needs for the coming school year.
In taking this decision, I have been guided by the advice of the NCSE Working Group report, which recommended sufficient time be allowed for consultation before the new model is implemented.
Through consultations, there was a broad welcome for the proposed new model from Parents, disability groups, schools and stakeholders. However, there has not been sufficient time to address all of the concerns which have been raised in advance of the 2015 school year.
Work will continue to develop the proposed model.
I have asked my Department to design a pilot of the new model and stakeholders will be consulted on it.
It is therefore unlikely that the new model will be in place before September 2017.