Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
346. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to use section 37A of the Education Act 1998 to progress new special education classes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41094/26]
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.
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 are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
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 its 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.
