Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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124. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reasons a school (details supplied) in south Tipperary that had previously had a new special class sanctioned has had the class withdrawn without any engagement to overcome the issues; if she will urgently review this decision by the NCSE which has left a number of students without an appropriate class place; how this class could have been sanctioned and publicly announced by her office only to be withdrawn; how a number of schools in south Tipperary which were given a verbal agreement to open ASD classes but were subsequently halted leaving a number of students without an appropriate class place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30152/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs.

It is important to remember that the vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.

This is in keeping with policy on an inclusive education, which promotes that children will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.

399 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the coming school year 2025/2026. Given that the Deputy has referenced 4 separate schools, I will seek an urgent update from the NCSE on their engagement with these schools and come back with an update shortly to the Deputy.

Any school that wants to open new special classes should be commended. However, it may not be possible to open new special classes in every school that wishes to open them. A key element is local need and how that need can be met in existing special classes in the area.