Special Educational Needs

Thursday, 5 March 2026

Ceisteanna (358, 375)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

358. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of letters of eligibility which have been issued by the NCSE for children with autism and mild to moderate special needs, aged four to 18 years-of-age, in Dublin 10; the number of children with autism and mild to moderate special needs, aged 4 to 18 years-of-age, from D10 waiting for appropriate school places; the number of children who have ended up in schools outside D10 and the number of children who have ended up in mainstream classes in D10 and outside D10. [18115/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

375. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of letters of eligibility have been issued by the NCSE for children with autism and mild to moderate special needs, from four to 18 years-of-age, in D10; the number of children with autism and mild to moderate special needs, four to 18 years-of-age, from D10 waiting for appropriate school places; the number of children have ended up in schools outside D10; and the number of children have ended up in mainstream classes in D10 and outside D10. [18225/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education (Deputy Michael Moynihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 358 and 375 together.

Enabling 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.

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 email address.

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.