Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 1

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

200 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to bring the Elementary Education (Blind and Deaf Children) Act, 1893, into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21997/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I have no proposals to bring the Elementary Education (Blind and Deaf Children) Act, 1893 into effect. The Deputy may be aware that section 16 of the Act in question specifically excluded Ireland from its provisions.

I am satisfied that the arrangements in place to address the educational needs of children with visual or hearing impairment, coupled with the measures included in the Education (No. 2) Bill, 1997, reflect modern approaches to such matters and provide appropriate responses to the needs of the children in question.