§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what was his Department's participation in the first European national conference for vocational training for mental handicap which took place in Maastricht, Holland, in April; what lessons have been drawn from this event; and what efforts are being made to implement the findings of the conference in the Northern Ireland context.
§ Mr. ViggersTwo officials from the Department of Economic Development attended the conference together with a representative from the Industrial Therapy Organisation in Northern Ireland. The conference provided an opportunity to learn how other countries are dealing with this particular disability group and the experience gained will be valuable in the planning of future provision in Northern Ireland.