Written answers

Wednesday, 24 March 2021

Department of Education and Skills

Special Educational Needs

Photo of Mark WardMark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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850. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the options available to the parents of a child (details supplied). [14390/21]

Photo of Josepha MadiganJosepha 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. 

This year, over 20% of the total Education budget or €2bn will be invested in supporting children with special educational needs.   As a result, the numbers of special education teachers, SNAs and special class and school places are at unprecedented levels. 

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. However, the active collaboration of school communities is essential in this regard. 

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide. NCSE is planning a further expansion of special class and special school places nationally, to meet identified need. This process is ongoing.

Notwithstanding the extent of the investment in special education and the supports which have been put in place, I am also very conscious that there are some parts of the country, including the area referenced, where increases in population and other issues have led to concerns regarding a shortage of school places.

I can assure the Deputy that the NCSE is acutely aware of these concerns and is continuing its engagement with schools, patron bodies, parents and other stakeholders to bring the required additional special education placements on stream.

My Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education and I want to reassure you that the delivery of the necessary additional provision is being progressed as an absolute priority.

I am advised that the specific case referenced by the Deputy has also been raised directly with NCSE who will arrange for a response as soon as possible.

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