Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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87. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will increase the central activities space, on a pro-rata basis, with the SEN base, in order to ensure adequate space for the actual number of pupils who will be using the central activities space; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30303/24]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I wish to assure the Deputy that the provision of appropriate accommodation for pupils with special education needs is an absolute priority for my Department. In order to make accommodation provision to meet the needs of students with special education needs, my Department has close engagement with the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) which has responsibility for coordinating and advising on special education provision for children and young people nationwide.

The Department engages very closely with the NCSE in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places. This work involves a detailed review of statistical data in relation to forecasting demand for special class places, as well as an analysis of available school accommodation. There is currently a particular focus on the provision of special classes at post-primary level.

In relation to new school building projects and traditional build additional accommodation projects, a central activities space of 80m² is provided with special education needs units catering for two special classes upwards. My Department has no plans to amend the specification for central activity spaces for special classes.

With regard to meeting immediate needs for special education provision, including special classes sanctioned for September 2024, the department provides funding under the Additional School Accommodation Scheme (ASA) for reconfiguration of available rooms in a school to accommodate a special class or classes. Funding is also available under the ASA scheme for additional accommodation, if required by a school to accommodate a special class.

The Deputy will appreciate that the immediate priority of my department is continued strong delivery to provide the additional capacity required to ensure that every child has an appropriate school place.