Written Answers Nos. 106-130
107. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the estimated cost of a 1% or €500 increase, based on whichever is the lower, pay increase across the public sector on a pro rata basis. [38092/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe cost of providing a 1% or €500 increase across the public service on a pro-rata basis is estimated to be €420 million, inclusive of pay and pensions costs, if such an increase were to be provided on the 1st of May 2026. This estimate is based on end-2025 figures of 417,464 whole-time equivalent public servants, which are the most recent final data available.
108. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if it remains Government policy that all new entrants to the Civil Service and public service must be appointed at the first point of the relevant salary scale, regardless of their previous professional experience; if any exceptions to this policy currently exist; and if his Department intends to review this approach in light of recruitment and retention challenges. [38125/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCircular 08/2019 Revised Arrangements for Starting Pay, sets out the arrangements applying to starting pay on promotion and appointment in the Civil Service for existing civil and public servants. As set out in the Circular, Government policy continues to be that starting pay on recruitment from open competition for all posts within the public service should be at the minimum of the relevant salary scale. All competition notices, advertisements and information booklets must specify that starting pay will be at the minimum of the scale. Such notices and booklets must also specify that the rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay policy.
Where a Secretary General/Head of Department or Office is of the View that there are exceptional circumstances justifying the offer of starting pay above the minimum, the specific sanction of the Department of Finance (now this Department) should be sought in advance of any offer being made.
For appointees who were serving elsewhere in the public service, in an analogous grade and payscale, the appointment may be made at the appointee's current salary. It is solely a matter for the employing Department/office to be satisfied that the grades are analogous.
The Circular provides for the granting of incremental credit for starting pay purposes in respect of persons who have previously been employed in the public service at the grade of Clerical Officer or Executive Officer or at an equivalent grade.
109. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the types of projects that will be deemed as critical under his new accelerating infrastructure action plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38164/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Critical Infrastructure Bill is a central pillar of the Government’s broader infrastructure acceleration agenda. The need for a Bill to fast track a limited number of strategically important projects through approval processes was identified in the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action published last December.
This Bill has been drafted and is being brought through the Oireachtas on a priority basis to respond to this need. Its primary aim is to allow Government to designate certain projects or programmes as critical. This then requires all public bodies who may have an authorisation function for these projects or programmes to prioritise consideration of them within their approval processes.
By establishing a clear legal basis for prioritisation, the legislation will ensure that critical projects and programmes receive focused and coordinated attention across departments, regulators and agencies. It will address the unacceptable delays in our infrastructure approval processes by mandating whole-of-State cooperation and creates a fast-track pathway for critical projects and programmes without skipping any steps in the approval process or weakening safeguards.
The Bill notes that infrastructure is anything that enables the essential facilities and systems of the State to function effectively and includes, but is not limited to -
1. transport facilities, including ports and airports, and transport systems, including roads and railways,
2. energy generation, transmission and distribution systems, and
3. water supply, wastewater and waste management systems.
The Bill specifically references these three key areas because they represent the categories of infrastructure that are required to underpin the provision of all other infrastructure, whether economic or social. The process of identifying projects and programmes will take place after the Critical Infrastructure Bill is enacted.
110. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation when the Critical Infrastructure Bill 2026 will be enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38260/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Critical Infrastructure Bill is a central pillar of the Government’s broader infrastructure acceleration agenda. The need for a Bill to fast track a limited number of strategically important projects through approval processes was identified in the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action published last December.
This Bill has been drafted and is being brought through the Oireachtas on a priority basis to respond to this need. Its primary aim is to allow Government to designate certain projects or programmes as critical. This then requires all public bodies who may have an authorisation function for these projects or programmes to prioritise consideration of them within their approval processes.
I plan to commence the Act as soon as is practicable after it is approved by the Oireachtas and signed by the President.
111. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the State supports in place to support the manufacturing of chocolate in Ireland; the measures to support marketing Irish chocolate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38256/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, through its agencies, supports Irish food and drink manufacturing businesses to set up in Ireland and to scale, expand and access our world-leading food innovation ecosystem. The Irish food and drink sector is globally recognised and is critical to our economic success.
The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) network offers business advice and training supports for new food businesses, including chocolate manufacturers. The LEOs provide a range of supports including Start Your Own Business programmes, Food Starter Academy programmes and feasibility and priming grants.
Enterprise Ireland (EI) plays a key role in developing the entrepreneurial ecosystem for new food and beverage companies, including chocolate manufacturers, in collaboration with other state agencies such as Bord Bia, which has a mandate to promote, assist and develop the marketing of Irish food worldwide. Bord Bia supports Irish chocolate manufacturers by providing market research, export guidance and global fair trade coordination.
EI have developed and implemented a number of food specific initiatives to boost the quality and quantity of startup companies in the food sector that have the highest potential for export and employment growth.
In June 2025, EI hosted the third Food Innovation Summit at Croke Park in Co Dublin. The event served as a platform to showcase food innovation within the food and drink start-up ecosystem. The summit featured presentations by highly innovative food and drink start-ups, highlighting their development journeys.
Food Works, Ireland’s Food and Drink Accelerator programme, is a collaborative programme co-managed by Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, and Teagasc. The Programme helps early-stage food businesses grow, scale, and become investor-ready. Established in 2012, Food Works has supported over 100 food and drink start-ups.
Enterprise Ireland guides all Food High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) client companies to food hubs such as Bia Innovator, and to Teagasc operated facilities, where they can access a range of additional supports.
The Regional Enterprise Development Fund supports enterprise centres nationally. Examples include the Guinness Enterprise Centre, which connects businesses with the Dublin food network support eco system.
Enterprise Ireland offers equity investments and tailored grants to food businesses throughout their growth journey. EI also maintains a constant dialogue with the local investment community, including the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund and related VC-managed funds, to present emerging investment opportunities relating to Irish food and drink start-ups.
112. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the way in which his Department is supporting Irish small and medium enterprises looking to enter international markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38296/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, through Enterprise Ireland, supports Irish companies to grow their business and secure new opportunities across the globe.
Enterprise Ireland’s strategy positions international growth as central to its purpose of Accelerating Sustainable Irish Business. The strategy sets ambitious 2029 targets, including €50bn in export sales, 275,000 jobs, and 1,700 new Irish owned exporters, reflecting the critical role of global expansion in Ireland’s economic resilience.
Companies supported by Enterprise Ireland exported goods and services worth €36.75 billion in 2024, the highest level on record. The impact of this activity by Enterprise Ireland client companies can be seen in the €42.6 billion spent in the Irish economy in 2024.
Enterprise Ireland works with more than 4,500 Irish companies who are exporting or are in the early stages of their exporting journey. These companies span the Technology, Manufacturing and Internationally Trading Services sectors.
Enterprise Ireland helps Irish businesses to become global leaders in their field, by supporting them to explore international exporting opportunities to drive global growth. They have a range of supports to help companies develop market entry plans, fund market research and upskill leadership teams.
Businesses working with Enterprise Ireland benefit from international trade missions, trade event programmes and buyer visits, which are instrumental when growing and scaling internationally.
Based in 42 offices across 30 countries, Enterprise Ireland Market Advisors have the local knowledge and connections to guide companies in growing their export sales. Market Advisors are a vital source of market intelligence that can be accessed when planning a go-to-market strategy. They offer practical on-the-ground help and can provide connections to potential customers, partners, and important local stakeholders.
Based in Dublin, Enterprise Ireland’s Market Research Centre (MRC) supports businesses with extensive market data, in-depth market analysis and tailored insights, so you can take a strategic approach to decisions and gain a competitive edge.
The MRC has the largest repository of specialist, online business databases in Ireland, providing access to the most authoritative market research resources.
Enterprise Ireland can also offer a range of market access grants to assist companies that are starting out on their export journey; supports available include the Digital Marketing Capability grant, the Evolve strategic planning grant, the Market Discovery Fund, and the Strategic Marketing Review.
Small businesses can also explore, target and exploit new business opportunities in markets outside Ireland through their local enterprise office. 'Get Exporting' is an export development programme available to small and medium enterprises and delivered nationally by Enterprise Ireland in partnership with Local Enterprise Offices. It is for Irish manufacturing and internationally traded services companies looking to succeed in international markets. It is designed to support businesses at every stage of the journey towards achieving initial export sales.
113. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the financial supports, compensation schemes, tax relief measures, or emergency assistance available to business owners who have experienced a loss of revenue as a result of repeated power outages or electricity supply disruptions; and if he will outline the supports currently available to affected businesses. [37972/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI recognise that electricity supply disruptions can present operational challenges for affected businesses. In general, such issues are considered commercial matters between businesses and their electricity suppliers, and businesses may also address these risks through appropriate insurance cover and contingency planning.
Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of measures which continue to help to reduce the exposure of Irish businesses to fossil fuel price shocks through improved energy efficiency, supporting fuel switching, and accelerating the transition to low-carbon, indigenous energy sources. Information on some of the available supports and measures that can assist businesses in reducing their energy use and costs has recently been published by my Department at www.enterprise.gov.ie/en/publications/reduce-energy-use.html
In addition to the above, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland provides a range of supports that directly assist businesses in managing energy costs. Through the Support Scheme for Energy Audits, Support Scheme for Renewable Heat and the Non-Domestic Micro-Gen Grant businesses can avail of grant support to identify inefficiencies, cost-saving opportunities, transition away from fossil fuels and generate electricity on site.
My Department, together with the enterprise agencies, maintains regular and structured engagement with energy-intensive sectors to assess cost pressures, investment risks and competitiveness concerns. This engagement informs policy development and ensures that climate and energy measures are implemented in a way that supports economic resilience. The Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP) published by my Department in January 2026 is a further significant Government initiative that will support the future development and competitiveness of strategic energy intensive industry in Ireland. This will take place through targeted measures that address costly infrastructure barriers currently impacting energy intensive industry, and enabling the co-location of industry with the supply of indigenous renewables within green energy parks.
It should also be recognised that the Government is progressing significant investment in Ireland’s energy infrastructure and transition to a more secure and sustainable energy system, with a focus on strengthening network resilience, increasing renewable generation capacity, and enhancing security of supply, which will benefit businesses and the wider economy over the medium to long term.
114. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of men and women who applied for parent's benefit in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38032/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis matter falls within the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary T.D.
115. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of men who applied for paternity benefit and the number of women who applied for maternity benefit in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38034/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThese are matters which fall within the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary T.D.
116. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will provide an update on the national life sciences strategy consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38152/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Life Sciences sector is one of the strongest drivers of our economy, fuelling both growth and exports. It combines a thriving indigenous enterprise base with some of the world's largest multinational companies, underpinned by a continually advancing world-class research ecosystem. Today, the sector employs over 100,000 people across the length and breadth of the country.
The Programme for Government, has committed to the development of a National Life Sciences Strategy to ensure this important sector remains competitive, as well as adopting a coherent and ambitious approach to future opportunities.
Governance structures have been put in place to underpin the development of the Strategy. A High Level Inter-Departmental Steering Group, chaired by my officials and comprising of senior officials across several key Government Departments, has been established to support the development and implementation of the strategy.
A dedicated working group, also chaired by my officials, with wider representation from Government Departments and relevant agencies will lead on the drafting of the Strategy.
The Strategy is being developed through extensive engagement with key stakeholders across the Life Sciences ecosystem to ensure that it is evidence-based, ambitious and responsive to emerging opportunities.
A broad programme of stakeholder engagement is currently ongoing. This includes a Public Consultation which closed in December. Submissions were received from across Irish society including from industry & medical professionals, pharmaceutical, MedTech and HealthTech companies, representative organisations, NGOs, and public bodies. These responses have been analysed by my officials and will assist the drafting of the strategy.
To complement the broad ranging public consultation, a series of more in-depth engagements with key stakeholders on core themes via consultative forums have recently concluded.
Three consultative forums involving representatives and leaders from the Irish Life Sciences industry, Government Departments and their agencies, research organisations, and NGOs were held on 12 February, 31 March and 24 April. These days focussed on “Driving Industry Growth Through Innovation and Investment", “Shaping Ireland’s Life Science Future - Talent, Skills & Sustainability” and “Supporting Better Patient Outcomes Through Innovation and Regulatory Excellence”.
At these forums, stakeholders heard from a range of expert speakers and participated in structured roundtable discussions on key questions with a focus on future priorities for the strategy. Feedback on these events has been very positive and a large amount of material has been gathered and is also being analysed to inform the drafting of the strategy.
There is also ongoing bilateral engagement with Government Departments and agencies, and other key stakeholders in the life sciences ecosystem.
The outcomes from the consultation process will be central to shaping the strategy which will be published later this year.
117. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will outline any engagement he has had with industry on the subject of new graduates being unable to obtain entry-level jobs in areas most affected by the adoption of artificial intelligence; if his Department has conducted any industry surveys to assess the existence of such a trend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38158/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am continuing to engage with industry and wider enterprise, as well as relevant State agencies on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the labour market.
According to the CSO Labour Force Survey (LFS) for Q4 2025, there were a record number of people at work in our economy, with total employment at 2.83 million. Furthermore, the economy has continued to add jobs and create employment opportunities for all. In the year to the fourth quarter, employment increased by 56,700 persons (+2.0%). The labour market continues to be characterised by record low rates of unemployment and record high rates of activity.
Monitoring of the labour market and AI impacts is ongoing. My department, through the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) published a paper on this theme last October. The paper ‘How AI is Transforming the Irish Labour Market’ highlights trends for Ireland in relation to AI. The research noted that Ireland leads in terms of the demand for AI jobs but also has a strong performance in relation to the supply of AI talent.
Further ongoing work in the Department will also help to shed more light on emerging developments. The EGFSN is funding or co-funding a number of pieces of AI related work, including a project on ‘Skills for Digital Specialists 2030’. This will be published later this year. This report will identify skills needs and skills gaps for ICT/digital specialists, including AI.
The EGFSN is also co-funding a new ‘Working in Ireland Survey’ on the Irish labour market being done by UCD. Research from this extensive, all-island study will also be available later in the year and will include work on AI and the labour market. My Department also has a strong working relationship with the OECD on AI related research and this is continuing.
My colleague Minister Niamh Smyth TD serves as Minister of State at the Department, with special responsibility for Trade Promotion, AI and Digital Trasnformation, the first Minister to hold a designated AI portfolio.
In that role, Minister Smyth is leading a significant programme of work to drive the adoption and deployment of artificial intelligence across Irish business and industry, providing enterprises with targeted support, training and practical guidance.
118. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of SMEs who have availed of the Energy Efficiency Grant by County and by sector in each of the years 2023 to 2025 and to-date in 2026, in tabular form; if there are any plans to amend the scheme to increase the level of grant aid or make it easier for SMEs to access given the rising cost of energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38334/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) was first introduced in 2023 with the aim of assisting small businesses to implement the recommendations of a Green for Business scheme and better manage their energy usage and long term costs. The grant initially offered up to €5,000 with a 50% contribution to the cost by the Small Business availing of the support.
In June 2024, in recognition of the increasing energy costs for small businesses, my Department doubled the maximum payment to up to €10,000 and reduced the contribution required of the businesses to 25%.
A full review of LEO schemes, including the Energy Efficiency Grant is underway. Consideration of any future adjustments to the EEG or other schemes will follow this review.
It should be noted that last year the Small Business Unit within my Department, in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland, conducted a full review of the application requirements for each of the different LEO grants. This resulted in significant reduction in the number of questions and simplification across multiple grant schemes - including an 11% reduction in the application requirements for the EEG.
Since its introduction in 2023 the Local Enterprise Offices have approved grant funding of €10.5m to 1,340 small businesses under the EEG. The number of approvals in each year since its introduction and the year to date are set out in the table below.
No. of EEG grant approvals:
|
LEO |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
2026* |
|
Carlow |
5 |
10 |
30 |
13 |
|
Cavan |
0 |
10 |
22 |
7 |
|
Clare |
1 |
10 |
25 |
16 |
|
Cork |
3 |
28 |
109 |
37 |
|
Donegal |
1 |
17 |
31 |
13 |
|
Dublin |
2 |
19 |
49 |
25 |
|
Galway |
1 |
12 |
50 |
6 |
|
Kerry |
2 |
11 |
23 |
26 |
|
Kildare |
0 |
20 |
21 |
7 |
|
Kilkenny |
1 |
7 |
27 |
13 |
|
Laois |
3 |
9 |
11 |
7 |
|
Leitrim |
2 |
5 |
15 |
2 |
|
Limerick |
1 |
8 |
22 |
14 |
|
Longford |
0 |
8 |
28 |
5 |
|
Louth |
0 |
2 |
10 |
7 |
|
Mayo |
1 |
15 |
40 |
9 |
|
Meath |
1 |
12 |
27 |
2 |
|
Monaghan |
5 |
11 |
25 |
12 |
|
Offaly |
1 |
17 |
22 |
7 |
|
Roscommon |
2 |
11 |
15 |
6 |
|
Sligo |
0 |
5 |
20 |
11 |
|
Tipperary |
0 |
12 |
21 |
19 |
|
Waterford |
1 |
3 |
17 |
7 |
|
Westmeath |
2 |
14 |
29 |
13 |
|
Wexford |
0 |
9 |
17 |
8 |
|
Wicklow |
0 |
4 |
9 |
9 |
|
Total |
35 |
289 |
715 |
301 |
*Please note 2026 figures are preliminary
Due to current data collection limitations, it is not possible to extract detailed information on grant approvals by specific sectors. However, as part of its quarterly reporting, Enterprise Ireland compile statistics which provide a broad indication of the sectoral spread of EEG approvals.
Q1 2026 EEG Sectoral Spread
|
Sector |
Approximate % of EEG Approvals |
|
Food & Beverage eg. Cafes, bakeries, coffee roasters, takeaways. |
41% |
|
Hospitality & Leisure eg. Pubs, hotels, campsites, golf clubs. |
10% |
|
Retail eg. Hardware shops, pharmacies, furniture shops, bookshops. |
9% |
|
Services eg. Childcare services, Laundrettes, training and education providers, accountants. |
37% |
|
Manufacturing & Industrial eg. Production and manufacturing of goods, engineering, carpentry manufacturers, construction businesses. |
3% |
119. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the supports in place for businesses and workers in response to a fire (details supplied), including those who lost premises and those indirectly impacted due to asbestos risks; the engagement he has had with the Minister for Social Protection on supports for workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38343/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn response to the unique circumstances presented by the Tycor Business Centre fire the Government has signed off on a new €750,000 scheme for businesses affected by the fire.
The scheme will provide for up to €30,000 in funding, of which up to €5,000 will initially be made available to businesses impacted while the scheme details are being finalised.
Full details of the scheme are being finalised by my Department in consultation with Waterford City and County Council and the Local Enterprise Office. The Scheme will be administered by Waterford City and County Council in cooperation with the LEO.
In addition, I have asked MicroFinance Ireland to roll out a dedicated loan support for micro-businesses impacted by the fire and experiencing difficulty securing bank funding. The proposed loan will offer a fixed interest rate of 5.5% APR, with loan amounts ranging from €2,000 to €50,000 and a maximum term of up to five years. To assist microenterprises with immediate cash flow challenges, provision is being made for up to six months’ full repayment moratorium.
LEO Waterford is in the process of assigning mentors to each of the businesses affected and the Local Authority and the LEO are actively assessing potential property solutions which may serve to allow business owners to avail of alternative business premises on a short- or medium-term basis.
The LEO assigned mentors will support businesses in developing a recovery plan, applying for finance through MicroFinance Ireland, and signposting to other state supports such as those available from the Department of Social Protection; which remains available to assist employers and employees impacted, both in accessing relevant Department income or employment supports.
There was a quick and coordinated response across a number of Departments in response to the fire - alongside very close engagement with Waterford City and County Council who managed the response on the ground.
A range of State supports including those through the LEO, the Department of Social Protection, the Department of Rural, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Health Service Executive, fire services and the Local Authority were activated.
Staff of the Department of Social Protection were and continue to be available to assist employers and employees impacted, both in accessing relevant Department income or employment supports, or by signposting to other state supports.
The Department of Social Protection has a range of income supports for employees. Any customer may make an application for Jobseeker supports, including Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit, either online at MyWelfare or in person at their local Intreo Centre. Where an urgent or immediate need arises for any employees, support may be available through the Community Welfare Service at the local Intreo centre.
120. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide an update on job losses at a company (details supplied); to provide urgent clarification on the handling of this redundancy process; the supports available for affected workers; if he will address the legislative gap that allows employers to bypass trade unions in collective redundancy situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38436/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has a robust suite of employment rights legislation in place to protect workers who may be impacted by redundancy. The Redundancy Payments Act 1967, as amended, requires employers to pay a statutory redundancy payment to eligible employees who are being made redundant and have more than 2 years’ service.
The rules governing collective redundancies are set out in the Protection of Employment Act 1977, as amended. Under the Act, collective redundancies arise where, during any period of 30 consecutive days, the employees being made redundant are:
5 employees where 21-49 are employed; 10 employees where 50-99 are employed; 10% of the employees where 100-299 are employed; and 30 employees where 300 or more are employed.
The 1977 Act imposes a number of obligations on an employer that proposes a collective redundancy. This includes undertaking a 30-day information and consultation process with the employees’ representatives and notifying the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of the proposed redundancies at least 30 days before they take effect. My Department received a notification of proposed collective redundancies from the company concerned on 27 April 2026.
Under the Protection of Employment Act 1977, the employees’ representatives are defined as
(a) a trade union, staff association or excepted body with which it has been the practice of the employer to conduct collective bargaining negotiations, or
(b) in the absence of such a trade union, staff association or excepted body, employee(s) who are elected by a group of employees to act as their representative.
This approach reflects the fact that Ireland’s industrial relations system is based on a voluntarist model, which recognises employees have the right under the Constitution to form associations and trade unions and that employers also have the right not to recognise trade unions for collective bargaining purposes.
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is the organisation which is mandated to secure compliance with employment rights legislation. Employees have the right to refer complaints to the WRC on a wide range of employment law breaches for an adjudication and compensation where appropriate. This includes the right to make a complaint where they believe their employer has failed to fulfil its obligations under the Protection of Employment Act 1977.
Additionally, the Intreo service of the Department of Social Protection provides supports to all workers who face job losses. This service can assist in relation to income and employment supports where needed, including helping with appropriate training and development opportunities.
121. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the application for a second special class at a school (details supplied); if approval will be granted for same; if not, the reasons for the decision given the concerns raised locally regarding the availability of special class places in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37964/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
The Department and the NCSE continue to work closely with school patron bodies, school management bodies and schools to confirm new special classes for the next school year 2026/2027. The NCSE began sanctioning new special classes in January of this year, which is several months earlier than last year.
In addition, the Minister announced inclusive special classes as part of a new approach to supporting students with additional needs. This is one of many ways the department is actively engaging to meet the increased demand.
504 new special classes have been sanctioned to date, including 22 inclusive special classes. More new special classes will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
The earlier sanctioning of new classes provides clarity for parents and allows schools more time for the planning and establishment of new special classes. The vast majority of new special classes being announced are being provided in available school accommodation which is being reconfigured as a special class. Each special class at primary level is allocated 1 teacher and 2 SNAs and at post-primary level, schools receive 1.5 teachers and 2 SNAs. Details of the new special classes are available on the NCSE website.
Of the 504 new special classes, 330 are being established in primary schools and 174 in post-primary schools. New special classes are being established in every county with 17 new special classes confirmed for Kerry so far.
Schools seeking to establish new special classes should continue to engage with the NCSE at local level. In sanctioning new special classes, the NCSE have due regard to the level of need in an area and the existing provision, including how many places are expected to be available through the normal movement of students from primary to post-primary or finishing school.
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 achieve their full potential.
122. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the measures currently in place to provide training for primary and post-primary teachers in the management of epilepsy in students; if any such training is mandatory or voluntary; if she has plans to introduce mandatory epilepsy awareness and seizure response training for teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37966/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis 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.
The Board of Management of each school is responsible for the care and safety of all of the students in their school and care and safety should be at the centre of all policy and practices. Schools are required to take all reasonable precautions to provide training for teachers to ensure the safety and welfare of their pupils.
It is important that a sufficient number of school staff receive adequate training to meet the care needs of students, and adequate cover is in place where staff designated to provide essential care support is absent on any particular day. Resources should also be deployed so that students with the greatest level of need receive the greatest level of support in the school.
Where specific training is required, the school can liaise with Enable Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Education Support Centres, at a local level to secure guidance and training to meet the care needs of the student.
The school’s special education needs organiser (SENO) is also available to advise on the resources available to assist students with special educational needs including opportunities for targeted training.
Matters in relation to the provision of health-related services to children should be generally directed to the HSE or to the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.
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 achieve their full potential.
123. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education and Youth the estimated cost to the Exchequer per annum of the standard five days of non-teaching time in primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37986/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraExtra Personal Vacation (EPV) Day Leave is available to a primary teacher who has completed a Department approved summer course only. The maximum EPV Leave entitlement in a school year is 5 school days, regardless of the number of summer courses completed. An application for EPV Leave is subject to the prior approval of the employer. In line with the school’s policy on teacher absences, an employer must consider the teacher’s application for the proposed EPV Leave, in the context of other statutory and non-statutory leave at that time. The welfare and educational needs of the pupils must take precedence over all other considerations. As EPV days are non-substitutable, there is no additional cost to the Exchequer arising from teachers completing the associated Department courses.
124. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will identify pressure areas in South Kildare in terms of the demand for special class places; the number of children in the location have not been offered an appropriate place; if she anticipates children not being provided a place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38011/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
My Department and the NCSE continue to work closely with school patron bodies, school management bodies and schools to confirm new special classes for the next school year 2026/2027. The NCSE began sanctioning new special classes in January of this year, which is several months earlier than last year.
In addition, I recently announced inclusive special classes as part of a new approach to supporting students with additional needs. This is one of many ways my department is actively engaging to meet the increased demand, including in Kildare.
504 new special classes have been sanctioned to date, including 22 inclusive special classes. More new special classes will be confirmed in the coming weeks. Details of the new special classes are available on the NCSE website.
Of the 504 new special classes, 330 are being established in primary schools and 174 in post-primary schools. New special classes are being established in every county with 26 new special classes confirmed for Kildare so far.
The NCSE remains available to provide advice and support to all families seeking specialist placement and will continue to examine where provision is required for the 2026/27 school year.
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 achieve their full potential.
125. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the situation affecting a school (details supplied), where pupils with a mild or moderate learning disability who are enrolled in an NCSE-approved special class designated for autism/ASD are being deemed ineligible for the special class grant under Circular 0066/2025; the reason for this exclusion; if this policy will be reviewed to ensure equitable access to supports for all eligible pupils regardless of class type; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38012/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to increasing funding to support schools and the Programme for Government commits to increasing capitation funding to schools of all types to ensure that schools can meet the elevated day-to-day running costs.
The commitment in the Programme for Government builds on the progress which has been made in recent years. The Department has secured €39 million in Budget 2026 towards increased capitation funding for primary, post-primary and special schools to provide additional financial support towards their running costs. This will see an increase in the standard capitation rates paid to schools of €50 per pupil for primary schools from €224 to €274 and of €20 per student for post-primary schools from €386 to €406. This will also allow for an increase of €20 in capitation rates for Urban Band One DEIS primary schools, increasing the mainstream pupil rate in these schools to €294.
The increased capitation rates will also see special schools now receive the same rates of mainstream capitation, for young people aged 12 and over, as for their peers in mainstream post-primary schools. These increases will take effect from September 2026. This funding will benefit schools around the country in managing their day-to-day running costs.
The increases announced in Budget 2026 are in addition to the 12% increases as part of Budget 2025. The last three Budgets have resulted in an increase in the level of capitation grant rates of 49.7% (€91) paid to primary schools and 28.5% (€90) paid to post-primary schools.
The department is committed to providing funding to recognised primary and post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme by way of per capita grants. The two main grants are the capitation grant to cater for day-to-day running costs such as heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance and general up-keep, and the ancillary grant to cater for the cost of employing ancillary services staff. Schools have the flexibility to use capitation funding provided for general running costs and ancillary funding provided for caretaking and secretarial services as a common grant from which the Board of Management can allocate according to its own priorities, except for the employment of relevant secretaries as per Circular 0036/2022.
The current standard rate of capitation grant is €224 per pupil in primary schools and €386 per student in post-primary schools. Enhanced rates are also paid in respect of pupils with special educational needs and Traveller pupils.
The majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers, through the provision of resources such as Special Education Teachers and Special Needs Assistants. This is an estimated 25% of the total student population, or 240,000 children and young people with special educational needs, that are supported in mainstream classes.
Over 30,500 students with more complex needs are enrolled in special classes and special schools this school year – an increase of 67% since 2020.
The Department of Education and Youth provides funding and resources to support the opening of the new special classes, which includes teachers, special needs assistants, capitation grants, furniture and equipment grants and professional development training from the NCSE. In addition, funding for the repurposing of existing accommodation or the provision of modular accommodation for new special classes is also provided. The vast majority of new special classes are being provided in repurposed available school accommodation. New streamlined arrangements were introduced in Circular Letter 0080/2024 to provide grant funding for schools repurposing accommodation for special classes. Further information on these arrangements is available in Circular Letter 0039/0025 and also here.
Each special class at primary level is allocated 1 teacher and 2 SNAs and at post-primary level, schools receive 1.5 teachers and 2 SNAs.
Local special educational needs organisers (SENOs) are available to assist and advise schools on available supports. SENOs may be contacted using the contact details available on the NCSE website here.
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. My Department is committed to continuing to review the level of general capitation and enhanced capitation rates paid to schools, including those enhanced rates for students attending special classes at post-primary level. The vast majority of special classes in our schools are to support students with a diagnosis of autism and this is in response to the level of need notified to the NCSE by parents.
126. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current average processing time for assistive technology applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38037/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Assistive Technology Scheme, as set out in my Department’s Circular 0010/2013, funding is provided to schools towards the cost of computers and specialist equipment, which are required for educational purposes.
All equipment provided under this scheme supports children with more complex disabilities who, in order to access the school curriculum, require essential specialist equipment. It must be clear that the existing I.T. equipment in the school is insufficient to meet the child's needs. Where necessary, schools may also purchase new or additional equipment or software for students from normal school resources or funds.
The Assistive Technology Scheme, provided by my department, supplements the overall funding approach for digital technology and equipment to support children for education purposes. All equipment provided under this scheme supports children who require essential specialist equipment to access the school curriculum. For children with more complex disabilities who require such equipment to access the school curriculum, which they do not already have or which cannot be provided for them through the schools' existing provisions, schools can apply for this equipment under the terms of the Assistive Technology Scheme.
To do this, schools make applications directly to their local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO), providing details of the student’s special educational needs or disability, including details of the approach taken by the school in making relevant interventions.
To qualify for equipment under the Assistive Technology Scheme, a student must have been diagnosed with a physical or communicative disability and must also have a recommendation in a professional assessment that the equipment is essential to allow the student to access the curriculum.
SENOs will review the application, and professional reports provided in support of same, to establish whether the criteria of the scheme have been met. They will then make a recommendation to my department as to whether or not assistive technology is required; and based on this recommendation, my department will decide on the level of grant, if any, to be provided.
My Department has received a large volume of applications for Assistive Technology, all of which are currently being processed. While the total number of applications received in 2026, and the current processing times for both primary and post-primary applications, are not readily available, these figures are being compiled and will be provided to the Deputy in the coming week.
My Department would like to reassure the Deputy that applications for equipment for students with hearing and/or visual impairments have been prioritised and there is currently no delay in the processing these applications. Sixth class pupils are also being prioritised to ensure that equipment is in place to assist with their transition to post-primary school. All other applications will be processed in accordance with the date that recommendations are received in the Department by the SENO.
Lastly, the Special Education section is currently finalising a review the Assistive Technology Scheme, with one of the key goals being to streamline the application process. This new process will be in place for the start of the next school year.
127. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason the teacher allocation at a school (details supplied) has been reduced, leaving the school with one less mainstream classroom teacher for the upcoming academic year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38041/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedule operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally.
The enrolment of the school referred to fell below the required threshold for the retention of the 14th class teacher.
The staffing arrangements for the 2026/27 school year are set out in Circular 0025/2026. That circular contains information and application forms on the staffing appeals process, where schools may appeal their staffing allocation to the Primary Staffing Appeals Board. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.
128. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Youth if the determination to introduce a split class is a decision made by her Department or the school itself; the requirements for this to take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38042/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedule operates in a clear and transparent manner and treats all similar types of schools equally.
At primary level, teachers are allocated to schools at an average of 1 classroom teacher for every 23 pupils, the lowest level ever seen at primary level. DEIS Urban Band 1 schools receive an average allocation of 17:1, 21:1 and 19:1 for junior, senior and vertical schools respectively.
The configuration of classes and the deployment of classroom teachers are done at local school level. The Department's guidance to schools is that the number of pupils in any class is kept as low as possible taking all relevant contextual factors into account (e.g. classroom accommodation, fluctuating enrolment etc.).
129. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide advice regarding options to a parent of a child with additional needs (details supplied) who is being expelled from their special school; when the educational welfare officer will be in contact with the parent following referral a number of weeks ago; the support being provided by the NCSE to the family, given they have been aware of the breakdown of the school placement for a period of time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38044/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
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 achieve their full potential.
130. Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for Education and Youth the position regarding the application by a school (details supplied) for special school status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38051/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
There continues to be an increasing need to provide additional special school places to support students with complex needs. To meet this need, sixteen new special schools have been established in recent years, and capacity has been expanded in a number of others. Five of these were established for the 2025/26 school year in counties, Cork, Dublin (2), Monaghan and Tipperary.
The new special schools established over recent years have focused on providing additional places in our largest urban areas – Dublin and Cork. The department and NCSE have already begun planning in relation to further expanding special school capacity for the 2026/27 school year. It is estimated that a further 300 new special school places may be required each year for the coming years.
I recently announced the establishment of four new special schools for the upcoming school year 2026/2027; a vital step in ensuring that children and young people with special educational needs have access to the specialist supports and environment they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
The four new special schools will be located in Balbriggan and Citywest in Co. Dublin, Bray in Co. Wicklow, and Monasterevin in Co. Kildare.
When looking to provide additional capacity the department’s preferred option is to increase provision in existing special schools if possible. Where this is not possible in a region, the department and NCSE will consider the need to establish a new special school.
In planning for increased special school places, my department and the NCSE review all of the available data on the growing need for special school places across the country. This involves a detailed analysis of enrolment trends and the potential for existing special schools in a region to expand.
Part of the forward planning process as to where new classes, schools or expansion is required looks at how far students are travelling to access an education that meets their needs. This is an important factor which has been incorporated into the decision-making process. Consideration is also given to the information the NCSE hold at local level on the number of children and young people seeking a special school place in a region.
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 achieve their full potential.
