Consultation on Review of Special Educational Needs Extended to 31 January 2010

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a further extension to the consultation period on the Review of Special Educational Needs and Inclusion.

The Minister said: "This is one of our most important policy areas as it impacts on some of the most vulnerable children and young people. We have held 14 public information meetings and four consultation sessions directly with children and young people. Through these meetings, parents have asked for more time to consider the proposals. I have listened to them and have decided to extend the consultation period to 31 January 2010.

"We have already received around one thousand responses to the consultation, which demonstrates the level of public interest. It is important that everyone with an interest in special educational needs makes their views known to the Department of Education within the next two months so we can develop a policy that meets the needs of these children in a timely and effective way."

Notes to editors:

1. Anyone wishing to respond to the consultation can do so through the Department of Education’s website or by contacting the SEN Review Team on 028 9127 9416 to request a printed copy.
2. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.