Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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450. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the number of childcare and early years education centres which are being asked to move location, in order to facilitate special classes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25480/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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This government is fully committed to supporting children with special educational needs to fulfil their full potential and the Programme for Government makes a number of commitments to deliver on this objective. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs.

Schools accommodation should be prioritised for the provision of primary and post-primary education. It is essential for school accommodation to be used to the greatest extent possible to meet the needs of children with special education who require a primary or post-primary special class place. My Department does not hold data in relation to the specific query raised as decisions of this nature are a matter for a school, board of management and patron body at local level.