Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
203. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education if additional supports could be put in place at a facility (details supplied) for a student who has a diagnosis of autism and an intellectual disability and is non-verbal. [27899/24]
View answerEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for 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 classes and special school places are provided.
The NCSE is responsible for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs including the allocation of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs). SNAs are allocated to schools as a school based resource and schools deploy SNAs in a manner which best meets the care support requirements of their students.
My department is aware of an application from the school for additional supports and the NCSE will be in direct contact with the school regarding the application.
