Re-opening of units would be a backward step

Reopening special units would be a backward step, DPA, IHC and CCS said today.

The three major disability organisations were reacting to news that the Supreme Court had upheld part of the Daniels Case, a court action taken by a group of parents concerned that changes in special education policy had led to a reduction in support.

“We are concerned that this case, and the publicity surrounding it, will lead to a mushrooming of special units. It is essential that we keep on track towards inclusion, where all children learn and grow together,” Chief Executive of DPA Gary Williams said today.

This is an issue of appropriate use of resources, of teachers having training and support and of schools accepting that all children have a right to a quality education, Mr Williams said.

“The families who took this action were obviously deeply frustrated, but the issue is more complicated than the development of policy – it’s about a whole attitude towards people with disability that leads to them being segregated from their peers.”

IHC and CCS have endorsed Mr Williams statements and will continue to work together to promote inclusion in New Zealand.

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