Special Educational Needs

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Questions (709)

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

709. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the ASD class place for a child (details supplied). [12908/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

Enabling 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.

As your query refers to an individual placement, I will arrange to have it referred 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 email address.

My department and the NCSE are committed to ensuring that sufficient special education placements remain available for students with special educational needs and will continue to review and monitor the situation as to where new specialist provision is required.