Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2025
234. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will ascertain from the NCSE the supports that are being made available to a child (details supplied) who has an autism diagnosis and has missed six months of school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53792/25]
View answerEnabling children with special educational 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 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 class and special school places are provided.
This is in keeping with policy on an inclusive education, which promotes that children will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.
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
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.
