Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 452: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to support the role of special schools. [40359/06]

John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 547: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the policies she is implementing to support special schools. [40677/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 452 and 547 together.

I wish to assure the Deputies that I recognise the unique contribution of special schools in the education of children with special educational needs and am committed to further developing this area. This is why I have asked my officials to undertake a review of the role of the special school and the special class. With inclusion of pupils with special needs becoming a reality for many mainstream schools, it is essential to develop mechanisms to facilitate the sharing of expertise in special schools and to begin the process of creating 'learning communities of schools'. The development of such a resource role for the special school is an acknowledgement by my Department of the value of these schools. My Department is most anxious that the skills and expertise that these schools have accumulated in supporting children with special needs is utilised to best advantage in providing for such children going forward. In addition, it will provide clear pathways towards enabling all schools within a geographical area to liaise professionally in a collaborative and co-operative fashion.

The initial part of the review involves the gathering and collation of information and views in relation to special schools and classes. This is being undertaken on behalf of my Department by St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. It is envisaged that this part of the process will be completed by the end of December 2006. The second phase of the review will be managed by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and will involve wider consultation with the schools and other partners.

The Deputies will be aware that in the context of increased investment in special education in 2007, I recently announced a significant increase in the rates of capitation grant paid to special schools. The increases range from a 30% increase in some payments to a near doubling of the rate for children with physical disabilities. These increases are a tangible demonstration of my commitment to supporting an important role for special schools. The extra payments for children in most special classes in mainstream schools are also being increased. The total cost of these measures will be €1.5 million.