Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 November 2025
294. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if, under the new SNA review guidelines, an emergent/above-SERC need arises in an autism class and a school requests a review, if the NCSE will conduct its review of the autism class exclusively or will the school have to undergo a whole-school SNA review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [66806/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra295. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if it is determined following an SNA review that additional SNA support is required in an autism class, if schools can be asked to staff above-SERC needs from their mainstream allocation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [66807/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 294 and 295 together.
Enabling students with special educational needs to receive an appropriate education 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.
The NCSE is, in the first instance, the primary body responsible for the matter the Deputy has raised. I will arrange for your query to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
Deputies are also welcome to raise such queries with the NCSE directly through their dedicated Oireachtas query line at [oireachtasqueries@ncse.ie].
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 reach their full potential.
