Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue. I take those parents extraordinarily seriously. Parents are busy and have a lot going on, particularly parents of a child with special needs. To come and sleep out at the Dáil shows the sense of real frustration, worry and concern they feel right now.

Some 369 of the 400 classes for next September have been sanctioned as of today. The NCSE continues to assess additional provision in local areas. My understanding is that the provision of those additional special classes for the 2025-26 year, that is, the next school year, will be confirmed in the coming weeks. I understand the Minister for Education and the Minister of State with responsibility for special education met with a number of parents of that group last Wednesday. I am told it was a positive engagement on the issues parents face when seeking a suitable special educational placement. The Minister said she would like to meet that group again to follow up and we will ensure that happens.

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