Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 February 2026
130. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth the breakdown of the number of special classes by fee-paying and non-fee-paying schools; if she accepts the discrepancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10536/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling 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 advocates that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.
Departmental policy is that special education provision should be made in State funded recognised schools (free-scheme schools) in the first instance. It is only where there is insufficient capacity in free scheme schools that the NCSE will engage with fee charging schools in order to provide special classes.
It is however recognised that in certain school planning areas, the NCSE may need to consider engaging with fee-charging schools in relation to the provision of special classes for the 2026/27 school year and beyond.
There are approximately 50 fee-charging post-primary schools nationwide. Of these, one school has two special classes. These were sanctioned for opening as it was considered that there was insufficient provision in free scheme schools to meet the special educational needs of students in the local area.
A list of all mainstream and special schools is available on my department's website on gov.ie. In addition, a list of schools with special classes; broken by location and class designation is available on the NCSE website: Special Classes – National Council for Special Education – Working to deliver a better special education service
Also attached is a breakdown of schools by category as asked by the Deputy.
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.
