Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

417. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her views on the fact that the NCSE has ignored five children with additional needs who have been recommended for a placement in a special class simply because they are already in mainstream, despite the fact that the NCSE has been made aware of these children and received their reports; if she is aware that the NCSE informed her that only one child associated with a school (details supplied) was eligible for a class placement, despite five other children in mainstream requiring a class placement; if she will urgently review this matter and explain how the NCSE could ignore the needs of these children; if she will review the decision not to proceed with the ASD class at the school which she had already sanctioned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33924/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an appropriate education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for me, my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).

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 class 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. When required, to support the participation of students with special educational needs in mainstream classes, supports such as special education teachers and special needs assistants (SNAs) are provided.

The NCSE has advised that supports have been provided to the school to support these students in their mainstream class to help them achieve their educational goals. The NCSE also advise that there are local schools with vacancies in special classes nearby should the families wish to avail of a special class setting. The NCSE will continue to monitor the situation locally and remains available to the school and parents in regard to any concerns or queries they may have regarding these supports.

My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential.