James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is a complex matter, as I understand, and there have been a few twists in the tale already, which is probably unfortunate. I thank the Deputy for raising the question and for his continued advocacy for Ballincollig, Cork and the wider special educational needs sector over the past four and a half years. He has been a strong advocate for them.

The Department continues to engage intensely with the NCSE in forward planning for new special classes for the 2025-2026 school year and, indeed, for future years to ensure every child has a place in an educational setting best fitting their educational need.

Planning for special classes and special school places in Cork and nationwide is under way ahead of the 2025-2026 school year. The locations of new classes for 2025-2026 will be confirmed in the coming months. The Minister, Deputy Foley, announced plans earlier this year for the roll-out of the next phase of investment in the school capital building programme. This consists of an additional €800 million to support more than 90 building projects in 2024 and 2025, including 138 additional rooms for children with special educational needs. I assure the Deputy the Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment. I will engage with the Minister following this debate and make to her directly the points the Deputy made. I am sure she will engage with him further on the matter.

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