XN000022-1973-11-28 — Page 21

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Wednesday, November 28, 1973

។

"This is the first time that voluntary organisations which are

well established in the field of ordinary education have provided special education classes in their schools," he added.

The general aim of special education, he went on, was to provide those unfortunate children suffering from some disability of mind or body,

the education necessary to develop them as well-adjusted individuals capable of leading a wholly or partially self-supporting life.

"Teacher training for special education, diagnostic and remedial

services, and the availability of places in both special schools and special

classes in ordinary schools are all in the process of expansion in

accordance with the five-year development plan for Special Education approved by Honourable Members last year."

This plan, Mr. Canning said, would provide an additional 4,000

places for severely handicapped children in special classes in ordinary

schools.

In conclusion, Mr. Canning said that although the past year "has given further evidence of real and positive advance in the scope and the quality of the education services provided at public expense there is no

complacency in my department."

He emphasised that "much needs to be done if we are to satisfy in

full the needs and aspirations of our community. This we shall strive to

do. It is my belief that the recently published report of the Board of Education provides a sound basis for further planning in the secondary field and that the White Paper which will result from public discussion and further

deliberations will provide us with a programme for expansion in the secondary field which the children of our community need and deserve."

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