Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 February 2026
126. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of SENOs in Cork; and the number currently absent from work on a leave of absence or illness leave, by area, in tabular form. [15379/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of Special Needs Organisers (SENOs), for fulfilling the functions of the Council within a designated area in relation to the identification of and delivery and co-ordination of education services to children with disabilities.
The Council employs SENOs to provide a nationwide system of local services. Locally based SENOs consult widely with parents/guardians, teachers, health care professionals, school authorities, HSE and other relevant government agencies.
The NCSE has informed my department that the total number of SENOs in place in Co. Cork is 18, which represents the full complement of SENO posts assigned to the county.
It should be noted that when a vacancy arises, a SENO point of contact is assigned to the area to assist schools, parents, and local services until the position is filled. Essential services are maintained through cover provided from available staffing resources. Parents should consult the regional contact list on the NCSE website to ensure they have the most up-to-date contact details of their SENO, or the SENO covering for their area.
