David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. How many special classes are there in the country? What percentage of primary and post-primary schools have special classes? Does the Minister know how much time children spend in special classes and how much time in mainstream classes? How are school principals to decide on this breakdown? What guidelines provide that advice? What is the input of the local special educational needs organisers on this issue?

How does the Minister define integration? Is there a definition of what constitutes integration? I understand there is no such definition. Does the Minister agree that one is needed? Has an evaluation been carried out with regard to the success or otherwise of special classes? If not, is it intended to carry out such an evaluation?

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