Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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As I have previously stated, in establishing the National Council for Special Education I did not set out to create a council that was representative of any particular sectoral interests. This was because if it is to cater for all children having special education needs resulting from a disability, it is important that the council should function in a cohesive, non-representative way. The 13 members of the council that I have appointed have a wide range of relevant knowledge, experience and expertise.

I established the council in December 2003 by order, the National Council for Special Education (Establishment) Order 2003 under section 54 of the Education Act 1998. The 13 members of the first council have been appointed for a term of three years. In accordance with the terms of the order, two appointments to membership of the council were made from among the nominees of the NDA. Four appointments to membership of the council were made from among the nominees of organisations representing national associations of parents, recognised trade unions-staff associations representing teachers and school principals and recognised school management associations. All of the members of the council have a special interest in or knowledge relating to the education of children with disabilities.

As the Deputy is aware, the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill 2003 is on Report Stage in Dáil Éireann at present. The Bill includes provision for a national council for special education, so the existing council will be superseded by a council appointed under the terms of the Bill as enacted, when the Bill is enacted. As the Bill stands at present the consultation-nomination-appointment process is broadly similar to that contained in the order.

In all of these circumstances I do not propose to meet with NAMHI or with any other representative organisation on the specific issue of representation for them on the National Council for Special Education.