Vol. 489 No. 3
256 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science if the concerns expressed by the Irish Council of People with Disabilities will be addressed to ensure that children with disabilities will have an equal opportunity to an education appropriate to their abilities. [7815/98]
The Government's Action Programme for the Millennium attaches key importance to ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of society.
In terms of access to appropriate education services, the Government's commitment is clearly reflected in the measures which I have brought forward in the Education (No. 2 Bill) 1997. I have noted carefully the proposals of the Irish Council of People with Disabilities in regard to the Education (No. 2) Bill and I am happy to inform the Deputy that officials of my Department have met representatives of the council to discuss these proposals in more detail. I will examine the submission carefully as the Bill progresses through the various legislative stages in the Oireachtas.
I wish to emphasise that the Bill was produced following an extensive process of consultation with the partners in education. As a result, the Bill has received a generally warm welcome. I intend to continue this consultation process as the Bill proceeds through the Oireachtas.
