Brian Brennan (Wicklow-Wexford, Fine Gael)
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60. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the options available to a school to apply for funding for an outdoor play area and equipment for children with specific, complex additional needs, separate to the start-up grant for a new SEN room; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50566/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As outlined in Circular 39/2025, where there is a new Special Education Needs (SEN) classroom sanctioned by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to open through the repurposing of existing accommodation, a SEN Start Up grant is payable. Additional funding for small scale repurposing works is also available to schools on an application basis to enhance the teaching space and learning experience of the pupil. Items such as SEN friendly outdoor area, fitted furniture, security, acoustics, internal finishes and lighting can be items for consideration as part of small scale repurposing works. Schools can also apply for more extensive works under the Department's Additional School Accommodation scheme. Details of all these options and application procedures are available on gov.ie.