Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
703. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth the proportion of DEIS and non-DEIS schools that currently operate one special class; the proportion which operate more than three special classes, by level, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12858/26]
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.
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, at ncse.ie/special-classes. The table below provides 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.
Number of active special classes in 2025-26
|
School Type |
Primary |
Post-Primary |
Total |
|
DEIS |
979 |
418 |
1,397 |
|
Non-DEIS |
1,650 |
694 |
2,344 |
|
Total Special Classes |
2,629 |
1,112 |
3,741 |
