Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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564. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the measures she is taking to sanction more early intervention classes in Kildare; the number that will be available in 2026; the number of places that will be available in total; the number that will be available for new students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [62238/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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The Department of Children, Disability and Equality has responsibility for provision of services to children of pre-school age. The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) provided by that department, enables the full inclusion and meaningful participation of children with disabilities/additional needs in the Early Childhood Care & Education Scheme (ECCE) programme.

Its goal is to create a more inclusive environment in pre-schools, so all children availing of preschool, regardless of ability, can benefit from quality early learning and care.

This is keeping with the general policy position of supporting children with additional needs to access supports and services with their peers and siblings in their local community.

There has been a significant increase in resources and supports provided to children with additional needs accessing the AIM programme over recent years.

It is important to note that a diagnosis is not required in order to access AIM supports and that while some children require additional supports at preschool level, many will transition into mainstream classes thereafter.

To further supplement the provision of services for these children my department also provides a number of early intervention classes in mainstream and special school settings for children aged 3-5 years old with a diagnosis of autism. There are also a small number dedicated to children who are deaf/hard of hearing.

These classes are intended to provide early support to children with the most complex of needs before they start school and can aid their transition to junior infants. A professional recommendation for placement in such a class is also a requirement. Early Intervention classes are generally resourced with one special education teacher and two special need assistants (SNAs) to every six students. It is important to note that the Teaching Council registers teachers under the Teaching Council Act 2001-2015 and in line with the ( www.teachingcouncil.ie/assets/uploads/2025/10/SI.2025.0482_TC_Registration_Regulations.pdf).

The vast majority of young children with additional needs are supported to attend their local Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) setting and do not need to attend a primary school or special school to access early years support.

Where the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) identifies need for an early intervention class, the class is sanctioned and supports are provided by my department to ensure the school can accommodate the class.

3,000 new specialist places will be created in our education system for the 2026/27 school year. The NCSE is currently examining the level of need by special class and special school type and where these places are best located, including for early intervention classes.