Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2024
263. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education if a child in County Kerry (details supplied) will be allocated a special needs assistant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24635/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this Government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
SNAs play a central role in the successful inclusion of students with additional and significant care needs in schools. They ensure that these students are able to access an education which enables them to achieve their best outcomes and reach their full potential.
The NCSE has responsibility for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs including the allocation of SNAs and reviews.
SNAs are allocated to schools as a school based resource and schools deploy SNAs in a manner which best meets the care support requirements of the children enrolled in the school for whom SNA support has been allocated.
Schools can apply to the NCSE for a review of this allocation if it is insufficient to meet the needs of its students. Detailed information on the NCSE exceptional review process is published on the NCSE's website.
All schools have the contact details of their local special educational needs organiser (SENO), and the SENO is available to offer assistance and advice to schools. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.
As the Deputy's query refers to an individual case, I will arrange to have it referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
My Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.
