Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 September 2026
314. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the situation of a first year student (details supplied) who is currently without a school place without the learning supports they require, despite their family applying to several schools; and if she will intervene to secure a suitable special school placement for this child. [67699/26]
View answerThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
The NCSE has advised that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) is working closely with the student’s family regarding options for school placements and other special education supports for the school year.
My department and the NCSE have sanctioned 587 new special classes for the school year 2026/27, including 70 inclusive special classes. This is one of many ways my department is actively engaging to meet the increased demand.
This brings the total number of special classes sanctioned to date to over 4,300. Forward planning has already commenced ahead of the 2027/28 school year.
Local SENOs are available to offer advice, support and guidance as required to ensure students with special educational needs are supported to achieve their full potential.
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.
