Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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568. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) will have onsite therapists and behavioural therapists. [50858/21]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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Special schools generally cater for children with the most complex needs.  Accordingly, these schools have enhanced staffing levels with greatly reduced pupil/teacher and SNA staffing allocations. 

In general, speech and language and occupational therapy supports are provided by the HSE.

On an ongoing basis, special schools also have access to the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) advisory support service which advises on children with the most complex needs, including behavioural needs.

Special schools in a start-up situation are targeted for specific support.  Care is taken in the planning of these schools and the provision of specialist training and support.  A bespoke package of CPD and professional learning for the staff of this new school is currently taking place with inputs from my Department, the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and the relevant agencies including the NCSE.  This school will also continue to be supported by NEPS.

I can assure the Deputy that my Department and NCSE will continue to prioritise this school for support.