Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will bring back the name of Shelagh National School to the Minister of State. The Deputy is a very strong advocate in this space. With the recruitment of the extra NCSEs - doubling numbers - I have no doubt there is provision for a new NCSE to look after the wee county of Louth to ensure there is proper capacity building in primary and post-primary. When you look at the numbers going from national to secondary school, you need to ensure capacity building is taking place. The Department of Education continues to engage intensely with the NCSE in relation to forward planning for new special classes for the 2025-26 school year and future years to ensure every child has a place in an educational setting best fitting their educational need. There are now more than 28,000 children being supported in special schools and classes, with the number of special classes increasing by 100% since the 2019-20 school year.

It is the statutory responsibility of the NCSE to work with schools to provide sufficient special education provision in each class year. Both the NCSE and the Department have held a number of meetings with education stakeholders in relation to the forward planning of special classes and special school places for the 2025-26 school year. As already outlined, budget 2025 provides funding for another 400 new special classes and 300 additional special school places for the school year 2025-26.

It is important to acknowledge the organisation the Deputy met and the wonderful work Louth Cycling Club does and how it is has embraced the trikes from the Variety group. It is brilliant to see on a Saturday morning children with various needs can participate with their peers on an equal basis. That club demonstrates real inclusion and equity for all.

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