Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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435. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the timeframe for the opening of ASD units in schools in the areas of Dublin 2, 4 and 6. [24591/21]

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.

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 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 South Dublin, where increases in population and other issues have led to concerns regarding a shortage of school places.

NCSE is continuing its engagement with schools, patron bodies, parents and others across South Dublin to bring the required additional special education placements on stream. The NCSE have specific plans in place to open additional special classes in the areas referenced and are engaged in consultation with schools in these areas. My Department and the NCSE are grateful to those schools that have responded, and continue to respond positively to meet the educational needs of children in their communities.

Minister Foley and I have also secured a significant expansion of special school provision in South Dublin through the establishment of a new special school - Our Lady of Hope School, on the campus of the former Scoil Colm in Crumlin, Dublin 12. This is a much needed development which will help to meet the demand for students with autism and general learning disabilities in the area.

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.