Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
197. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of children who have applied for special education places for the academic year 2026/2027; if she has considered a centralised application system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [70183/25]
View answerThis government is fully committed to supporting students with special educational needs to fulfil their full potential and the Programme for Government makes a number of commitments to deliver on this objective.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is undertaking analysis of information provided through the Parents Notify process to plot demand for special class places for the 2026/27 school year. The NCSE will also consider vacant places in existing special classes and places that will become available through the regular transition of children from primary to post-primary schools. Once this analysis is completed the NCSE will be equipped to engage with schools to open new special classes in relevant areas. It is expected that many of these special classes will be sanctioned by 31 December 2025.
The common application system pilot is also ongoing in some areas of the country, running concurrently is the extension of the autism class application trial in the Dublin 15 area. These pilots form an important step towards delivering a more efficient, transparent, and equitable school application process. It will reduce stress for families, ease administrative burdens on schools, while also supporting better planning for school places.
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.
