David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 1806: To ask the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 47 of 3 July 2008, if he is in a position to implement the remaining sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 in particular the provisions in relation to individual education plans and assessments; if he has set deadlines for the implementation of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31282/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As the Deputy is aware, a number of sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act, 2004 have been commenced. Following discussions with the Education partners, my Department developed proposals to facilitate implementation of the remaining sections, including the provisions in respect of assessment and individual education plans (IEPs). These proposals are being considered in the context of the 2009 estimates process.

The Deputy may wish to note that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has published guidelines on the IEP process, and a copy issued to all primary and post-primary schools at the commencement of the 2006/2007 school year. These guidelines provide advice and assistance to schools, teachers and parents on devising and implementing individual education plans. It is intended that schools will use these guidelines to develop school practices and procedures in relation to individual education plans, in advance of the mandatory requirement for them to do so.

I remain committed to the provision of resources for students with special educational needs and my Department continues to expand capacity and services for these students across the schools network through the work of the National Council for Special Education.