Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Education and Skills has set out as his priority the delivery of the best education in Europe inside ten years. A key part of that is becoming the best at supporting children with special educational needs.

The Government is committed to ensuring that all children with special educational needs, including those with autism, are given the best opportunity to fulfil their potential. Everybody would agree with that.

The overall budget for special educational needs supports has increased from €1.28 billion in 2011 to more than €1.6 billion now, with special educational needs accounting for approximately one fifth of the overall education budget and correspondingly improved outcomes for students. I am surprised by the issues the Deputy has raised. I know that, for example, the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, has been to St. John of God's on a number of occasions and meets those parents regularly.

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