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

The National Council for Special Education's report on Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs in Schools makes clear that there are many aspects of the current system with which parents and schools are very happy. We should recognise that at the outset.

However, the NCSE also considers that there are concerns in relation to some aspects of our current system, under the headings of enrolment, assessments and the supports for children with special educational needs and their allocation.

The report makes 28 detailed recommendations which the NCSE feels would help to address these issues. These recommendations will require careful consideration by my Department. I have requested the NCSE to develop a proposal for a revised allocation model for further consideration.

I am also conscious that in making any changes to our supports, we need to protect the gains we have made. Consultation will therefore be a key aspect in the implementation of any of these recommendations.

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