Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2026
98. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Education and Youth when a child in County Kerry (details supplied) will receive an educational placement along with the level of consistent therapeutic and medical support that is urgently needed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40670/26]
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.
As your query refers to an individual placement, I will arrange to have it referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
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.
546 new special classes have been sanctioned to date, including 47 inclusive special classes. Further new special classes expect to be confirmed in the coming weeks. Details of the new special classes are available on the NCSE website.
Of the 546 new special classes, 355 are being established in primary schools and 191 in post-primary schools. New special classes are being established in every county with 17 for Kerry so far.
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.
