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

The Deputy will be aware that there is just one day left, I think, to input into the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs, EPSEN, review, which may be an opportunity for the group. I have no difficulty meeting them, but if they want to input a more detailed submission they could do so through that and have their views heard. It is important that we ensure there is an appropriate placement for every child with additional needs. Some 92% of our special classes are for autistic children. The prevalence rate has increased somewhat, from approximately a 1.55% prevalence rate to approximately 3.11%. In Dublin, there are at present 474 special classes, 367 of which are in primary and 107 in post-primary. We expect to open more in September.

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