Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 95: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide details of the National Council for Special Education's review of the policies relating to special educational needs here; when he expects to receive this review; if he will ensure structures are in place for parents of children with special educational needs to input into this important review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31552/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has a formal role under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act, 2004 to advise me as Minister in relation to any matter relating to the education of children and others with disabilities.

It is my intention that the significant resources to support children with Special Educational Needs are deployed to ensure the best possible outcomes for students.

I have therefore asked the NCSE to provide me with comprehensive advice on how the educational system currently places and supports children with special educational needs in schools. This advice will include: - the identification and assessment of children with special needs- the nature of supports provided for children- the way in which supports are allocated to schools and - how these supports are configured.

The NCSE has advised my Department that representative groups including parent representatives have been consulted as part of the development of this policy advice. The advice is expected early in 2013.