Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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375. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the National Council for Special Education has completed and submitted its policy advice report on education provision in special classes and special schools; and when she will publish this report. [5563/21]

Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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376. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she plans to close the existing four reading schools for children with dyslexia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5564/21]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 375 and 376 together.

In September 2018, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) was requested to develop Policy Advice on Education Provision in Special Classes and Special Schools to examine whether placement in specialist settings brings about improved educational outcomes and experiences, relative to their ability, for students with special educational needs.

This Policy Advice is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

Part of my Action Priorities for Special Education includes improved long-term planning for the provision and development of special school and special class places in future years to ensure that no one is excluded; supporting both special schools and pupils with special educational needs in mainstream education by working to ensure that schools have the appropriate accommodation and facilities.