Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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504. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if it is the case that of the 1,042 additional teachers provided for in Budget 2026, 860 are special education teachers to cover special schools and special classes in mainstream schools; and if that means there is only an additional 182 mainstream teachers. [55317/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Budget 2026 provides funding for 860 additional teachers, commencing in the 2026/27 school year, to support children with special education needs (SEN). These additional teachers will be allocated to work in special classes and special schools, and as special education teachers in mainstream school settings.

There is also increased funding to cover the costs associated with an estimated 182 extra teachers due to changing demographics and language supports needs.

The Deputy may also be aware that additional funding was secured in Budget 2026 for increased school leadership supports, enhanced programme of supports for DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) and for delivery of curriculum reforms and teacher education. This funding will also result in additional teachers being allocated within our schools.

The published Budget documentation sets out funding for key measures and actions agreed for the coming year. The final allocation of funding for the Department for 2026 will be set out in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) which is due to be published later this year. Further details on the 2026 allocations for my Department will be available after the 2026 REV process is complete.