Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 666: To ask the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 465 of 20 November 2007, his plans to fulfil the Programme for Government, which commits to ensuring early intervention for pre-school children with special educational needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27081/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the Programme for Government commits to ensuring early intervention for pre-school children with special educational needs. This commitment is being addressed in the context of the implementation of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, 2004 (EPSEN Act) and the Disability Act 2005. My Department is now at an advanced stage in finalising proposals to facilitate implementation of the remaining sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act 2004.

The time taken to finalise proposals reflects the complexities involved, the need for consultation across the wide range of people and sectors involved, the need to align with the requirements of the Disability Act, 2005 and define how the Health Service Executive (HSE) and NCSE will work together under both acts. This approach will allow for the co-ordinated delivery of services across the education and health sectors.

My Department's proposals for the implementation of the EPSEN and Disability Acts are being considered in the context of the 2009 Estimates process.