Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2015
556. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Education and Skills when it is proposed to introduce the new system for allocation of resources for special education needs; if the introduction of the new system will be piloted; if not, the reasons for not doing so; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6124/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that, the National Council for Special Education published its Report on a Proposed New Model for Allocating Teachers for Students with Special Educational Needs on 18th June 2014.
This Report was prepared by a Working Group, appointed by the NCSE and Chaired by Mr Eamon Stack, which included representatives from disability organisations and also parent representative bodies.
An extensive consultation process was undertaken by the Working Group with stakeholders to inform the development of its report. Consultation meetings were held with the Health Service Executive, teachers, principals, union officials, parents, school management bodies, National Educational Psychological Services, advocacy groups, the Inspectorate, and Special Educational Needs Organisers.
Subsequent to the publication of the NCSE working group report, my Department invited education partners, stakeholders, and parent representative groups to make written submissions in relation to the NCSE report. 29 such written submissions have been received to date.
In October last year, officials at my Department held consultations with primary and post primary management bodies, teacher organisations, groups representing those with disabilities and parents' representatives.
Officials again met with representatives from these groups on 20th, 22nd and 30th of January last in order to further consult with these bodies.
In the course of the consultations a number of stakeholders raised the issue as to whether the proposed new allocation model could be piloted in some schools, prior to the full introduction of the model. Consideration is now being given to this issue.
I can also confirm that officials have advised all stakeholders that there will be ongoing consultation with them as the work on the development of the model progresses.
I hope to make an announcement in relation to the proposed new allocation model shortly, in order to give clarity to schools regarding the allocation process for the coming school year.
