Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 October 2026
288. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Youth the way in which she will ensure that the recommendations in assessment reports for neurodivergent pupils submitted to schools are implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [71632/26]
View answerThis government is fully committed to supporting students with special educational needs to fulfil their full potential and the Programme for Government makes a number of commitments to deliver on this objective.
Schools support children and young people using the Continuum of Support, whereby school staff use a problem-solving approach, including school screening (assessment) and evidence-based intervention, for children and young people experiencing difficulties in the school context. For children with additional learning needs, the school will develop a Student Support Plan. This plan outlines:
• The child's strengths, interests, and needs.
• Priority learning goals.
• The supports and interventions that will help the child participate fully in school and make progress in their learning.
The Student Support Plan is developed collaboratively and may involve the child's teacher, parents or guardians, the child themselves, and may include assessment reports from other relevant professionals. If a child is not making sufficient progress following appropriate supports and interventions being provided by the school, the school may consider referring the child to National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) to assist in identifying their needs and determining any additional supports required.
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.
