asked the Minister for Education the consultation, if any, which has taken place with any teaching body prior to the issue of litir 23/77 in relation to the placing of mildly handicapped pupils in ordinary national schools; and if he will give details of any such consultation.
Written Answers . - Handicapped Pupils in National Schools .
178.
: Special classes for mildly mentally handicapped pupils or pupils functioning at that level have operated in national schools for many years and are being extended according as needs are identified. As the Deputy will be aware, there are medical and social, as well as educational, aspects to this matter. In the context of the developing community care services of the regional health boards, the circular gave guidance on the procedures necessary for the assessment of children before admission to special classes.
There was no formal consultation with any of the teaching bodies in relation to the circular before its issue.