As the Deputy is aware, I indicated my intention to widen the consultation process when the education for persons with disabilities Bill was restored to the legislative process and I encouraged all interested parties to participate in the ensuing consultative process.
As a result of this consultation process, 39 groups and individuals responded to the invitation for submissions on the Bill and 25 groups met officials of my Department for detailed discussions on their submissions. The new Bill will take into account the views which emerged from consultations with the various interest groups. This phase of consultation is now complete and I intend to bring the revised legislation to Government shortly. I anticipate it's publication before the end of the month.
My objective is to bring forward legislation which will: identify the special educational needs of children with disabilities and provide for an education appropriate to their needs as early as possible in their lives; ensure that parents have a central role in their child's education; provide for the planning for the child's future special education needs as an adult; and ensure that the various agencies involved in providing for special education and related support services are required to act within specified time limits.
I also propose that the legislation will build on and strengthen the structures set out in the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill 2002, especially the national council for special education and the special education appeals board. It will also be an objective for revised legislation that it will closely dovetail where necessary with legislation being prepared by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform relating to the broader issue of services for people with disabilities.