Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made to date in drawing up a plan for the implementation of the EPSEN Act 2004 to prioritise access for children with special needs to an individual education plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51307/12]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The Deputy will be aware that a number of sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act have been commenced.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) made recommendations which suggested that additional investment over a period of years of up to €235m per annum, across the education and health sectors, would be required to fully implement the EPSEN Act. My Department's opinion is that the level of investment required could be greater.

In the light of the very difficult economic situation, and these significant costs, the previous Government deferred the full implementation of EPSEN. The NCSE have been asked to provide comprehensive policy advice on how the education system can best support children with special educational needs. This advice will guide the preparation of a plan on how aspects of EPSEN can be implemented, including the prioritising of access to children with special needs to an individual education plan.