Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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167. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will examine a case (details supplied) where a child still does not have a special education place for September, and has little communication from the NCSE due to a vacant SENO position in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26161/24]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I understand that this is an anxious time for parents who are seeking a school place for their child for September and I would like to assure the Deputy that this government is determined to alleviate the pressures faced by parents when seeking a special educational placement.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has advised my department that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) recently contacted the family in relation to a securing a suitable placement and has provided them with information on schools in the area in which they can apply to. The SENO remains in contact with the family and is providing support and advice as required. The NCSE advise my Department that there are available post-primary special class places in some areas across Dublin.

My department and the NCSE work closely in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places, work which is close to finalisation for the 2024/25 school year.

Over 360 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2024/25 school year. Of these, 48 are in Dublin, 32 at primary level and 16 at post-primary level. This brings the overall number of classes in County Dublin to 582.

The NCSE expect to confirm some additional classes shortly to ensure that a sufficient level of provision is available. The NCSE is confident that through the provision of these new classes and vacancies in existing classes there is sufficient places to meet the needs of all children known to them for September 2024.