Vol. 413 No. 9
19 Mr. T. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education when he proposes to take over all functions relating to the training and education of people with a mental handicap as recommended by the review group established by the Minister for Health; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The report of the Review Group on Mental Handicap Services, commissioned by the Minister for Health, made a number of recommendations for increased co-ordination between the Departments of Health and Education in the provision of services for children with general learning difficulties. It did not recommend that all functions relating to the training and education of people with a mental handicap be taken over by the Minister for Education.
The Department of Health and my Department have arranged for discussions in relation to the educational aspects of provision for mentally-handicapped persons.
In addition, the Special Education Review Committee established by my predecessor are to report and make recommendations on the educational provision for children with special needs, including those with mental handicap. A specific term of reference of that committee is to report on the linkages which should exist with other Departments and services provided under their aegis.
