Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
515. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is satisfied that special education needs organisers are acting consistently across the State and that parents and school staff are always getting the best support and advice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [72498/25]
View answerThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of special educational needs organisers (SENOs), for fulfilling the functions of the NCSE Council in relation to the identification of, and delivery and co-ordination of, education services to children with disabilities.
As a result of significant investment by this government in the NCSE the number of SENOs has increased to 120, an increase of 47 from the previous sanctioned. The SENO plays a crucial function in the framework of special education, charged with a variety of responsibilities to ensure that students with special educational needs (SEN) receive individualised support and services, aligned with the continuum of support.
SENOs assess and identify students with SEN at primary, post primary and special school levels. The role involves significant interaction with parents/children, teachers and school leaders, health care professionals, school authorities, Health Service Executive and other relevant government agencies.
At local level, the NCSE has increased the number of support teams available to parents and schools, throughout the country, from a 10-team structure to a 20-team structure. All SENO grades are now assigned on a county basis and undertake caseloads associated with that county only, and on a reduced caseload basis.
Local SENOs are available to offer advice, support and guidance as required to ensure students with special educational needs are supported to achieve their full potential.
