Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will be aware that a number of sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act have been commenced. However, in the light of the very difficult economic situation and the significant costs involved, the previous Government deferred the full implementation of EPSEN.

The National Council for Special Education had suggested that additional investment over a period of years of up to €235 million 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 could be greater.

The NCSE has been asked to provide comprehensive policy advice on how the education system can best support children with special needs. This advice will guide the preparation of a plan on how aspects of EPSEN can be implemented, including the prioritising of access to children with special needs to an individual education plan.

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