Seán Power
Ceist:162 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in relation to the Bridge project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12674/01]
Written Answers - Bridge Project.
The Bridge project was a targeted initiative which sought to prepare young adults with disabilities in the 16 to 18 age group for the transition from school life to adult living.
The project was originally funded under the Youthstart initiative for the period 1996 to 1998. However, I understand that its application for renewed funding under Youthstart was unsuccessful because of the view taken by the adjudicating committee that its focus should be on testing new models of support which, if successful, should be mainstreamed by the relevant Department.
Reports on the operation of the Bridge project have since been considered by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and officers of the NCCA have had discussions with representatives of the Bridge project. The experience gained with the project is being considered in the context of the ongoing work of the NCCA in developing curricular guidelines for teachers catering for pupils with special needs, including pupils in the 16 to 18 age group attending special schools.
My Department is currently reviewing the question of support for the Bridge project in the context of the developments taking place on the curricular guidelines.