Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 January 2026
48. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Youth if a more formalised structure required to help support children with epilepsy in classrooms will be introduced (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2521/26]
View answer52. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the measures she is taking to ensure that all teachers across the State are informed and provided with training for students with epilepsy; the supports that are provided to schools who have students with epilepsy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2534/26]
View answer57. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Youth to consider providing fully funded epilepsy training sessions for education staff in primary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2579/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 48, 52 and 57 together.
The Board of Management of each school is responsible for the care and safety of all pupils. Where the school is aware of potential difficulties that may arise as a consequence of a medical condition suffered by one or more pupils, it may be possible for the management authorities, working in conjunction with parents, teachers and children to put preventative measures in place to lessen the possibility of any difficulties arising or to ensure that, if a pupil suffers from an illness requiring, that appropriate treatment is available.
Teacher education provided by the Department through Oide covers the implementation of the curriculum and matters relating to teaching and learning but does not encompass training on medical matters.
Where specific training is required, the school can liaise with Enable Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Education Support Centres, at a local level to secure guidance and training to meet the care needs of the student. It is a matter for individual school authorities to make such arrangements locally.
