Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
376. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the interim accommodation options her Department is providing to schools that were promised modular special class accommodation for September 2026 but are now facing delays into 2027; if she will outline the policy in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32278/26]
View answerMy department’s Modular Accommodation Programme is an important mechanism for facilitating accelerated delivery of necessary additional capacity for Special education classes, where there is no alterative classroom space available nearby to repurpose.
My department is working to ensure that the accommodation in question is delivered as soon as possible. The timeline for delivery is subject to a number of factors, including some factors outside the department’s control. However, the assigned Project Manager and department officials are liaising closely with the school authorities to keep them informed of the status of their school project.
The department’s approach is to advise schools that it is prudent to have contingency plans in place for modular accommodation projects, and this contingency planning is supported by training, guidance and support from the NCSE in relation to the establishment of the special class.
My department will continue to prioritise the delivery of these projects as part of the rollout of the school building programme. My department is working closely with the NCSE and with schools to ensure that the required provision is in place, and to contingency plan in mitigation of any risks of delay.
