Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We look at the whole suite of measures. We support the child with additional needs in the system. The vast majority of them are in mainstream education whether that is in a special class, a mainstream class or whatever. For example, we have the whole system around the SNAs. The pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced to an historic low of 23:1. There is continuing professional development, which the Chair asked about. In terms of the resourcing the teacher regarding different plans for the different children within the classroom, we have advice that is available to them. If it is specifically required by NEPS or whomever, then we look even to the National Council for Special Education and the supports that can be provided there. We must also ensure the child gets the required maximum support. If there is a child with complex needs or additional needs, and coming from another country, we have AL. A significant number of teachers have been employed, under EAL, in the 2023-2024 school year. We have more than 437 of them employed in post-primary schools and over 1,000 of them employed in primary schools, specifically in respect of EALs. Specifically in terms of special education teachers supporting mainstream teachers, we have more than 1,000 more of them in place than we did in 2021. We are constantly increasing the number of teachers in the system who work in the area of supporting mainstream teachers. We also have our own services, whether that is the Oide, which is integrated support services and continuing professional development. As I said, NEPS and the NCSE work collectively to support what is happening in schools.