§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what additional resources will be made available to the Equality Commission to enable it to fulfil its duties in respect of the changes in disability discrimination legislation planned over the next three years. [101009]
§ Jane KennedyThe consultation process on proposals for legislation that will enhance the educational opportunities of children and young people in Northern Ireland with special educational needs and disabilities has recently been completed. Consideration is currently being given to the content of such legislation, in light of the outcome of the consultation. Where the legislation provides for additional responsibilities for the Equality Commission, consideration will be given to the resources necessary to enable the Commission to fulfil these responsibilities.
§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the outcome of the consultation on proposals for a special educational needs and disability Bill will be published; and when the legislation will be enacted. [101005]
192W
§ Jane KennedyThe consultation process on proposals for legislation that will enhance the educational opportunities of children and young people in Northern Ireland with special educational needs and disabilities has recently been completed. Consideration is currently being given to the content of such legislation, in the light of responses. The outcome of consultations will not be published, but it is expected that draft legislation will be issued before the summer and this will be the subject of further consultation. It is intended to introduce an Order in Council at Westminster or a Bill to the Northern Ireland Assembly towards the end of 2003, with a view to beginning implementation of the legislation in September 2004.