Special Educational Needs

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Ceisteanna (519)

Jen Cummins

Ceist:

519. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Education and Youth the plans for her to use Section 37A of the Education Act 1998 to progress new special education classes. [29643/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

This government is fully committed to supporting students with special educational needs to fulfil their full potential and the Programme for Government makes a number of commitments to deliver on this objective.

I am satisfied that I have the necessary statutory powers under Section 37A of the Education Act 1998 to compel schools to make provision for children and young people with special education needs. This power is only used as a last resort and where all reasonable efforts have failed but it usage is kept under review over the course of the year. In addition, the NCSE also has the power to direct schools to admit individual children and young people with special education needs.

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.