Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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918. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason SENOs in County Kerry are unaware of the availability of autism classes in their locality (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15358/21]

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. 

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. 

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide. It has well established structures in place for engaging with schools and parents. NCSE seeks to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all children who have been identified as needing special education placements. 

NCSE does not maintain waiting lists for schools.  Boards of management of individual schools are responsible for such enrolment matters. However, when schools notify NCSE of vacancies within their specialist provision, SENOs work locally to ensure parents are made aware of these special class places. 

I can assure the Deputy that 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.

I have also arranged for your query to be brought to the attention of the NCSE for direct reply to you.