Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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360. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the expression of interest regarding the development of an autism spectrum disorder, ASD, unit in a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42013/20]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education appropriate to their needs is a priority for this Government.  Next year, over 20% of the total Education budget or €2bn will be invested in supporting children with special educational needs.  

This investment will support the provision of over 1,200 additional special class places.

Notwithstanding the extent of this investment, there are some parts of the country, including the area referenced by the Deputy, where increases in population and other issues have led to reported concerns regarding a shortage of school places.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide. Through better planning at both national and local level, it is my objective that specialist education places should come on stream to meet emerging demand on a timely basis.

I understand that the NCSE is actively working with primary and post primary schools to establish special classes in the area in question.  The active collaboration of school communities is vital to the effective inclusion of students with special educational needs and I appreciate the cooperation of schools in this regard. 

This matter has been referred to the NCSE for appropriate action.