Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
345. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to introduce changes to the assessment of needs process to access special education places; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41093/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Assessment of Need (AON) process is provided for under the Disability Act 2005 and is under the remit of the Health Service Executive (HSE). Assessment Officers working under the remit of the HSE are charged with organising the process which results in an Assessment of Need. The Assessment Officer coordinates and completes the Assessment Report and a determination is made as to whether or not a child or young person meets the definition of disability contained in the Act. Revisions to the AON process are a matter for the HSE in tandem with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.
It is also important to note that while a diagnosis is currently required to access a special class or a special school, this does not have to be linked to an Assessment of Need.
For clarity, there is no change to the AON process as it applies in schools.
The Department continues to monitor existing practices with a view to responding to future needs. As with any new education measure or initiative, there will be a comprehensive consultation process with the full range of education stakeholders and advocacy groups in respect of any proposed changes either to the AON process as it applies to schools or to the application process for enrolment in schools.
The department favours the adoption of a needs-based approach to all aspects of school life including enrolment, and will seek to progress this, subject to the availability of necessary resources and the outcomes of a consultation process. Any proposals arising will be progressed through a memorandum for government.
