Gaeloideachas is pleased that the Review of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, 2004 (EPSEN) was published during the summer. We hope that Gaeloideachas’ recommendations will be listened to and heeded as the recommendations are implemented.

We are hopeful that the support services and resources available to children in Irish-medium and Gaeltacht education will be enhanced to help them flourish and reach their full potential. The Review contains over 50 recommendations in total to ensure a more inclusive education system.

One of the main recommendations made is:

building on the steps being taken in relation to Irish in the context of children with additional needs, so that they can be supported through the medium of Irish.

Other recommendations for Irish-medium education include:

· There should be comprehensive professional training and development on Irish-medium education for teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs).

· Students with special educational needs should be supported to access the supports they require without compromising their Irish language learning, particularly for those transitioning from Irish-medium primary schools.

· Provision of tailored assistance and resources to Irish medium schools through the NCSE should be increased.

· The access of children with special educational needs to places in Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí should be enhanced.

· Where possible, diagnostic and standardised testing materials should be specifically in Irish, rather than relying on translations of English versions.