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

I appreciate that the Deputies are making representations on behalf of various principals and constituents who may have contacted them. I have no difficulty with that. It is important to bear in mind the actual statistics in respect of the new distribution model, which show that 67% of all schools will either have an increased allocation or will maintain their allocation. It is important to understand as well that this is a distribution model, which means the total available SET resources are distributed as fairly and equitably as possible across the nearly 4,000 schools.

There was engagement with the INTO and other education partners on the model. That feedback was used to inform the outcome. The SET allocations are distributed every year. Schools have received the allocation for 2024-25 earlier than was the case in previous years, which gives them more time for overall planning. The new model is more reliable and more responsive to each school's profile of need. It involves a number of inputs, including enrolment numbers, as alluded to, which are a key driver of the level of need in schools, together with educational need and educational disadvantage. Children with complex needs are supported under the model.

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