Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
493. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of special education teachers currently employed; the estimated first and full-year cost of providing an additional 100 special education teachers in primary and secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45664/26]
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 promotes that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.
Special education teachers provide additional teaching to students attending mainstream classes with special educational needs using a wide variety of teaching approaches.
By the end of the 2026 calendar year there will be over 21,000 special educational teachers and almost 25,000 special needs assistants (SNAs) in our mainstream classes, special classes and special schools. This will mean we will have almost 46,000 teachers and SNAs working in our education system committed to supporting and nurturing students with special educational needs, enabling them to achieve their best outcomes and reach their full potential.
The estimated full-year cost of a new entrant special education teacher is €59,751 per annum within a primary setting and €60,108 in a post-primary setting. Figures are inclusive of substitution costs and Employer PRSI.
The estimated full-year cost of a special education teacher is €80,360 per annum within a primary setting and €81,640 in a post-primary setting. This includes provision for related substitution costs and employer PRSI.
Where posts are allocated from 1 September, the cost is a pro-rata equivalent of the full 12 month annual cost.
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 achieve their full potential.
