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

This is not just about the forecasting model. These are the new initiatives that we have undertaken. These initiatives are bearing fruit. We will have 600 new special classes sanctioned at primary level and almost 300 new special classes at post-primary level. We have had five new special schools over the past three years. We can see clearly that it has had a major effect on what we are trying to achieve, especially in Cork.

We have 65 new special classes in Cork; 23 in Limerick; 24 in Meath; and 94 in Dublin. However, there is a focus on urban areas where demand is highest. It is a given that is important.

The NCSE website, ncse.ie, has a list of all schools that have special classes with the types and locations of these classes. That can be clearly seen. We have 2,544 special classes, which is an increase from 548 in 2011. The NCSE is collaborating with schools. We have written to all post-primary schools to ask them to open special classes. Once the child is known to the council, there should be no reason to fail to have an appropriate placement for that child.

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