Séamus McGrath
Question:231. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the opening of a special class at a school (details supplied). [53785/25]
View answerTuesday, 7 October 2025
Questions (231)
Written answers
Enabling children with additional needs to receive an appropriate education is a priority for this Government. It is also a key priority for me, my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The NCSE is, in the first instance, the primary body responsible for the matter the Deputy has raised. I will arrange for your query to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
Deputies are also welcome to raise such queries with the NCSE directly through their dedicated Oireachtas query line at: oireachtasqueries@ncse.ie
The NCSE will have a clear picture of the local demand for special class places for the 2026/2027 school year after the parents notification process closes (October 1st).
Once the NCSE has fully collated and assessed this information, the NCSE will be in a position to advise on the locations of any new special classes. My Department and the NCSE are prioritising the opening of new special classes in medium and larger primary schools with available accommodation and who may have none or just one existing special class.
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.