Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
473. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of primary school applicants for the 2026-2027 intake in each school planning area in County Wicklow who submitted a letter of eligibility as part of their enrolment process; the number of students who were offered a special education place as a result; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3355/26]
View answerEnabling students with special educational needs to receive an education that meets their needs 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 students with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where students 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 advocates that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the national agency with responsibility for the provision of special education places. When a parent notifies the NCSE that they are seeking placement the NCSE validates the submission and provides the parent with a letter of eligibility for the required specialist placement. This letter is then required to be submitted with the school enrolment form. The letter's purpose is to inform schools that the NCSE is aware of the student’s needs and that the student has been factored into the planning process for provision at a local level.
An additional benefit of this process is that it has removed an administrate burden on both schools and families alike. Having this letter removes the need for schools to evaluate reports and for parents to fill in forms and provide reports and recommendations directly to schools. All schools must notify the NCSE when a child or young person is enrolled in a special class or special school place.
Parents may apply to enrol their child in a school of their choosing. Enrolments to schools are a matter for each board of management and parents apply directly to schools, therefore, the information requested by the Deputy is held at a local level.
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.
