Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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317. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications from primary schools and post-primary schools for special classes that have been refused in each of the years 2018 to 2021; the reason for refusal in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12392/22]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this Government. 

This year, my Department will spend in excess of €2 Billion, or over 25% of the Department’s budget on providing additional teaching and care supports for children with special educational needs. 

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs nationwide.

It is open to any school to make an application to the NCSE for the establishment of a specialised provision and where sanctioned, a range of supports, including capital funding, is made available to the school. 

I have arranged for the Deputy's query to be referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.