Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 September 2011
46 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will implement the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act in order to ensure inclusive education practices that are underpinned by a series of statutory rights in order that children with special education needs receive an education in an inclusive environment and achieve outcomes in accordance with their abilities. [25104/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that a number of sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act have already been commenced.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) made recommendations which suggested that additional investment over a period of years of up to €235m per annum, across the education and health sectors, would be required to fully implement the EPSEN Act. My Department's opinion is that the level of investment required would be greater than that envisaged in the NCSE report.
In the light of the very difficult economic situation, and these significant costs, the previous Government deferred the full implementation of EPSEN.
Given the costs involved and current fiscal constraints, addressing this issue will be very challenging. I will be considering how we can develop a plan to implement the objectives of the EPSEN Act so as to deliver improved educational outcomes for students with special needs.
