Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for articulating the case for Scoil Mochua and the challenges it faces. It is no different than any other constituency. Indeed, I have faced many challenges regarding families and children deserving and demanding access to resources. There is a challenging environment. I acknowledge the particular circumstances the Deputy mentioned. When one engages with the NCSE, it is responsive. It is being considered as part of the review process.

On Tailte Éireann, I will work with the Deputy on how we can engage with the Minister of State for local government and planning - Tailte Éireann falls under that remit in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage - to see what solution can be provided regarding that opportunity for the school and for many families with children with additional needs.

On the Department of education's commitment, the Minister and Minister of State are focused on trying to build capacity in the special education sector. That involves working with the NCSE and SENOs on the ground to allocate resources as best we can. On the ratio of three SNAs to 700 pupils, as part of the overall allocation and review, school management has its part to play in engaging with the SENO and the NCSE.

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