Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has contacted the school on the request. It is a matter I take seriously as Minister of State with responsibility for special education. It is important to look at the growth in special classes. In 2011 there were 508 special classes and now there are 2,118, an increase of 386%. This year alone, we opened 269 special classes and will open 287 next year, with 1,700 special class places. That is the context. There has been rapid growth in special classes but that is not to say that we do not need more. The NCSE looks at current and projected demand and current and projected accommodation when it considers whether to open a special class.

I understand that the school has not yet made an application to the Department for special class accommodation but has applied for a special class. I am informed that there is already sufficient special classes in that school planning area, as there are three special classes in the Beltubert special planning area. That could change. If there is a review with new information and additional resources are required, the NCSE will consider that seriously. I commend Milltown for looking into opening a special class voluntarily. Not every school is as forthcoming. I appreciate it and it is something that we will consider.

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