John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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117. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills why the NCSE has decided not to go ahead with creating an ASD class in a school (details supplied); to provide a timeline for when the school will be allowed to open the ASD class; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36592/25]

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 NCSE actively encourage expressions of interest from schools to open special classes, and I appreciate and commend the efforts taken by boards of management in expressing their interest. However, it is not always possible to open a special class in every school that expresses an interest.

When assessing the needs in the local area, the NCSE identify schools in the neighbouring vicinity with available special class vacancies or capacity and assess their capability with consideration to demographical and statistical data.

Schools not sanctioned this year, such as the school referred to by the Deputy, will remain as a potential option for future classes. Local SENOs remain available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs.

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.