Thursday, 28 May 2026

School Accommodation

Ceisteanna (161)

Joe Cooney

Ceist:

161. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will publish a breakdown of schools currently relying on temporary or modular accommodation and the duration for which that accommodation has been in place, by county; if her Department has a definition of ‘temporary accommodation’; if there is a policy timeline trigger at which a prefab unit must be replaced by a permanent structure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40524/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

As part of its forward planning, my Department is currently conducting an integrated energy and condition profile for 4,000 schools across the school estate. This will provide a nationwide and systematic approach for identifying and determining priorities for investment in the school estate to address decarbonisation, condition and maintenance requirements. Work on this survey is well advanced and it is envisaged that the survey and validation process will be completed by the end of 2026. In relation to the questions raised by the Deputy, it is envisaged that this survey when completed and validated, will provide standardised and evidence based data on the condition of the school estate. Furthermore, the department has initiated a new strategic review of school rental accommodation which will address the policy issues which the Deputy has alluded to.

The NDP Sectoral Investment Plan for the 2026 to 2030 will involve an investment of €7.55 billion – circa. €5 billion of which will be to support project delivery and €2.25 billion to support the operation of the school estate in terms of maintenance and improvement works etc.

There are a range of schemes in place to support school authorities in terms of dealing with condition issues in their school buildings e.g. minor works grant scheme, climate action summer works scheme and emergency works scheme. There is also a very clear responsibility on individual school authorities to ensure that they operate a good maintenance regime and my Department provides good guidance on same as well as funding and technical support via its various schemes.

It is also important to note that the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) reflects the Government’s broader commitment to developing modern, sustainable infrastructure. MMC enhances the productivity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of school accommodation delivery. The Modular Accommodation Framework is a key part of the Department’s strategy for the provision of good quality functional accommodation to meet the permanent accommodation requirements for prioritised individual schools. Offsite construction minimises disruption in live school environments, while factory precision and strict quality control deliver robust, low-maintenance buildings. Today’s modular buildings represent a major advancement from earlier prefabricated forms and, since December 2018, all new builds — including modular — must meet the Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standard, ensuring high energy efficiency and sustainability.

As part of NDP rollout, it is envisaged that there will be continued strong rollout of the Modular Accommodation Programme to meet additional permanent accommodation requirements that are deemed urgent and necessary by the Department and that cannot be met from within existing school capacity. While the intended lifespan of individual units may currently vary, modular units provided from the Department’s framework have a design life of 60 years.

School Funding

Ceisteanna (162)

Ryan O'Meara

Ceist:

162. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on a school's (details supplied) application for the climate action summer works scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40740/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The purpose of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme (CASWS) is to enable individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works on a devolved basis that, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. The CASWS operates on a multi-annual basis across a number of categories of works.

It is envisaged that approvals in any given year will involve a spread of categories rather than the traditional single category at a time. This is aimed at managing market capacity and maximising value for money opportunities for school authorities.

In November 2025, my colleague the former Minister of Education and Youth, Helen McEntee TD, announced the first tranche of approvals under the new Climate Action Summer Works Scheme. 297 projects were approved to proceed and involve primary, post primary and special schools, along with projects in all counties and across all categories of works.

My Department can confirm an application was received from the school in question however the school was not on the list of approvals in the first tranche. Given that funding is limited in any particular year it is necessary to prioritise applications. Under the new climate action summer works scheme which operates on a multi annual basis, like previous summer works schemes, applications from schools that are not reached for funding or market prioritisation reasons in 2026 will qualify to be assessed for purposes of the funding available for climate action summer works in subsequent years.

It is anticipated that the next tranche of approvals will be in the latter half of 2026.

Full details of the of the announcement and the list of schools approved in the first tranche, the Circular (0029/2025) for the scheme and guidance documents for schools can be found at the below link; www.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/services/summer-works-scheme/.

School Staff

Ceisteanna (163)

Martin Kenny

Ceist:

163. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide funding for an additional teacher in a school (details supplied) to cater for the incoming junior infant class in September 2026. [38778/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The 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 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 appeal submitted by the school was unsuccessful. The Appeals Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final.

School Facilities

Ceisteanna (164)

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Ceist:

164. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to advance the delivery of new school facilities (details supplied) that have been long delayed. [39851/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently completing Stage 2(b) of the architectural design process. Stage 2(b) involves detailed design, securing all Statutory Approvals and the preparation of tender documentation.

In April 2026, Minister Naughton met with Senator Boyle and school representatives in Leinster House. In May 2026, Building Unit Officials visited the school to discuss urgent needs, including enabling works for additional classrooms in the neighboring vacant primary school (St Mary’s originally secured as decant accommodation) and enabling works to address other areas. The Building Unit are currently preparing a report with recommendations and will be in contact with all stakeholders in due course. I also visited the school on Friday, May 22nd.

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation.

This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.

A total capital allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth has been confirmed for the period 2026-2030 under the National Development Plan. As part of this NDP allocation my department will place a strong emphasis on provision for children with special educational needs, with a particular focus on meeting annual school place needs. In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional School Accommodation scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs.

As part of the NDP Implementation Plan for the education and youth sector, a first tranche of projects to progress to tender and/or construction during 2026 and 2027 was published in January 2026. Prioritisation will continue to identify further tranches of projects to proceed to tender and construction over the NDP period, with stakeholder consultation to commence in June 2026.

Our NDP Implementation Plan will optimise outputs from the NDP allocations, with a strong focus on maximising existing school capacity, progressing priority projects where local capacity across schools in the area is insufficient, and ensuring delivery that is affordable, offers value for money, and meets functional needs.

I would like to advise the Deputy, over this period, my Department has provided €228.24 million in capital funding for Donegal schools. A total of 73 schools have been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation. 1 school project was included in the NDP Implementation Plan to go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027.

There are currently 8 school projects in Donegal under construction. This summer, 26 schools are approved to undergo works as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.

In addition, since 2020 a total of 60 special classes have been sanctioned in Donegal, of which 11 were sanctioned for September 2026.

Educational Disadvantage

Ceisteanna (165)

John Connolly

Ceist:

165. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the publication of the new DEIS Strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40344/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

I was pleased to recently announce the launch of a new DEIS Strategy to 2035, alongside the DEIS Plus scheme. This represents a comprehensive ten-year plan to address educational disadvantage and promote equity across all schools supported by a full-year investment of €48 million. Also published alongside the strategy and DEIS Plus scheme is the first three-year DEIS Implementation Plan 2026-2028.

The DEIS Strategy to 2035 sets out a whole-system, evidence-based approach to addressing educational disadvantage in all schools. This strategy recognises education as central to breaking cycles of disadvantage, expanding opportunity, and ensuring long-term security. It sets out a more flexible model of support, so that resources are aligned with each school’s level of need as it changes over time.

The strategy includes:

· Expansion of HSCL supports

· Strengthened wellbeing, inclusion and community partnership supports

· Additional community link workers

· Increased capitation funding and additional supports for teacher professional learning

· A robust monitoring and evaluation framework with annual reporting

The strategy will be delivered through three phased implementation plans to 2035.

The DEIS Plus scheme will provide enhanced, targeted supports to 121 schools with the highest concentrations of children and young people at risk of educational disadvantage. The new DEIS Plus scheme represents the most significant expansion of targeted supports since the establishment of DEIS.

The Department of Education and Youth allocates almost €200 million in 2026, rising to €230 million from 2027, to provide targeted supports for schools to address educational disadvantage. Budget 2026 allocated an additional €16.5 million in 2026, rising to €48 million in 2027, to support the implementation of a new DEIS Strategy and introduce the DEIS Plus scheme. This is the largest single investment in DEIS since the programme began. The department has doubled the allocation for the DEIS programme over the past 10 years.

The Department will continue to engage with schools, education partners and stakeholders throughout implementation. Annual progress reports will track delivery of the strategy and DEIS Plus scheme. Further information is available at gov.ie/deis.

Youth Services

Ceisteanna (166)

Erin McGreehan

Ceist:

166. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Education and Youth the funding allocated in 2026 for youth services and youth workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40711/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

As the Deputy is aware, arising from Budget 2026, an additional €8 million in current and capital funding was secured to support the sustainability and development of youth services. This brings the overall core funding available for youth services and youth work infrastructure to €94.1 million in 2026, representing a 9.3% increase on 2025.

Of this, €90.1 million in current funding will support existing youth services and organisations delivering both targeted and universal provision for young people. This investment sustains services that now engage over 450,000 young people nationwide. Core schemes, including the Youth Services Grant Scheme and the UBU Your Place Your Space scheme, have received increases to support organisations in maintaining services and addressing operational pressures.

The UBU scheme remains the largest programme, with over €53 million allocated in 2026 to support 258 youth services working with young people who are marginalised or at risk. Ten new UBU services were created in 2025 which are now coming on stream in 2026. Targeted supports such as the Resilience and Effectiveness Initiative, with €1.1 million allocated, will assist organisations in addressing financial challenges and strengthening service delivery. In addition, over €1.2 million is being provided for the Targeted Youth Employability Support Initiative, helping young people not in education or training to build skills and confidence.

The department also continues to strengthen the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme as a key universal support for volunteer-led youth work. Funding for the scheme has increased from €2.1 million in 2020 to €2.8 million in 202.

Taken together, this funding demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting youth services and youth workers and ensuring high-quality, sustainable youth services nationwide.

School Accommodation

Ceisteanna (167)

John Clendennen

Ceist:

167. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the progress of the accommodation project for a school (details supplied), especially in light of the sustainability report carried out on the school building in January 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40548/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The project to which the Deputy refers, has been devolved for delivery to Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB).

This project is currently at Stage 2B of the architectural design process. This stage allows for detailed design and planning, obtaining necessary statutory permissions and preparation of tender documents. A Stage 2B report has been submitted to my department from LOETB. The report is undergoing a detailed technical and cost review in line with the Public Spending Code. All projects, including this one, are subject to the due diligence requirements of the Public Infrastructure Guidelines. Managing timing, scope, and cost is crucial to staying within budgetary limits for the overall program. Once the review is complete, the outcome will be communicated to LOETB as the delivery body for this project who will continue to engage directly with the school authorities to keep them fully informed.

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.7 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation.

Government support for this investment, including by way of supplementary capital funding, has delivered real benefits for school communities.

In July 2025 the Government announced a capital allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth for the period 2026-2030 under the National Development Plan. As part of this NDP allocation my department will place a strong emphasis on provision for children with special educational needs, with a particular focus on meeting annual school place needs. In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional School Accommodation scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs.

The NDP Implementation Plan for the Education and Youth sector along with the first tranche of projects to progress to tender and/or construction during 2026 and 2027 was published in January 2026. This NDP Implementation Plan will optimise outputs from the NDP allocations, with a strong focus on maximising existing school capacity, progressing priority projects where local capacity across schools in the area is insufficient, and ensuring delivery that is affordable, offers value for money, and meets functional needs.

The current status of all projects continues to be set out under item number ten at the following link: www.gov.ie. This is updated on a regular basis to reflect project progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.

School Staff

Ceisteanna (168)

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

I propose to take Questions Nos. 169, 175 and 184 together.

Enabling 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 promotes that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.

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.

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.

It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of all schools to implement an admissions policy in accordance with the Education Act, 1998 and the Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018.

Under the provisions of this act, all schools are required to have admissions policies which have been approved by the patron following consultation with staff and parents of students who are attending the school. It is a key requirement of the act that all school admission policies are fair and transparent.

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.

Special Educational Needs

Ceisteanna (170)

Peter Roche

Ceist:

170. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Education and Youth the measures her Department will put in place to ensure that schools and families are not placed in the same position in future years (details supplied); if her Department has considered reopening or extending the Summer Programme application portal for schools which were unable to apply due to the narrow application window; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40760/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

Details of the 2026 Summer Programme were communicated to all schools on the 6th May 2026. While it is acknowledged that details of the Summer Programme are typically announced earlier, the finalisation of arrangements for the 2026 programme was delayed pending confirmation that the Department of Education and Youth would receive the additional funding required to support all aspects of education.

All schools have been offered the opportunity to run a school-based programme for children with the most complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.

Where a school does not intend to run a school-based programme or there is no place on the programme for an eligible child, schools were invited to make an application for the home-based programme.

There has been no change to the portal system: applications were submitted using the same process as in previous years. However, the application portals for both the school-based and the home-based programmes were open in parallel from the 6th May to the 15th May to reflect a shorter timeframe.

On Thursday, 14th May, a further email issued reminding schools of the closing date for the receipt of applications. We have received a significant number of applications from schools in relation to both the school-based and home-based programmes.

It is not proposed that the Summer Programme application portals for schools will be re-opened at this time.

School Accommodation

Ceisteanna (171)

John Clendennen

Ceist:

171. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the progress of the additional school accommodation project for a school (details supplied), specifically in terms of consideration of the green field site proposed by the LOETB; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40547/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The project referred to by the Deputy has been devolved for delivery to the Laois Offaly Education Training Board (LOETB).

The project is currently at Stage 2a of the architectural design process. In Quarter 2 2025, a Stage 2a report was submitted to the Department and is undergoing an intensive review from both a technical and cost perspective in accordance with the requirements of the Public Infrastructure Guidelines.

LOETB have proposed an option to acquire an alternative site for this project. This proposal has been reviewed by the Department and following further engagement, LOETB are now finalising cost comparisons on the two sites.

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation.

This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.

A total capital allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth has been confirmed for the period 2026-2030 under the National Development Plan. As part of this NDP allocation my department will place a strong emphasis on provision for children with special educational needs, with a particular focus on meeting annual school place needs. In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional School Accommodation scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs.

As part of the NDP Implementation Plan for the education and youth sector, a first tranche of projects to progress to tender and/or construction during 2026 and 2027 was published in January 2026. Prioritisation will continue to identify further tranches of projects to proceed to tender and construction over the NDP period, with stakeholder consultation to commence in June 2026.

Our NDP Implementation Plan will optimise outputs from the NDP allocations, with a strong focus on maximising existing school capacity, progressing priority projects where local capacity across schools in the area is insufficient, and ensuring delivery that is affordable, offers value for money, and meets functional needs.

The current status of all projects continues to be set out under item number ten at the following link: www.gov.ie. This is updated on a regular basis to reflect project progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.

Schools Building Projects

Ceisteanna (172)

Brian Brennan

Ceist:

172. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on progress of school building projects (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40682/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

The current status of the building projects referred to by the Deputy is as follows:

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Arklow CBS and Avondale Community College have all been devolved for delivery to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) as part of a programme of school building projects (Project Dargle). All 3 projects are currently at Stage 2b of the architectural planning design process with a full grant of planning permission received for each school. NDFA will continue to engage directly with the individual school authorities to keep them fully informed of progress.

Regarding Bunclody Community College, this project is devolved for delivery to Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB). The project is currently at Stage 2b of the architectural process, which allows for detailed design/planning, obtaining the necessary statutory permissions and the preparation of tender documents. WWETB will continue to engage directly with the school authority to keep it fully informed of progress.

Finally, in relation to Glenart College Arklow, I am pleased to inform the Deputy a project comprising of a three-classroom special educational needs (SEN) base has been devolved for delivery to the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB). The project was approved to progress to Stage 2b (planning) in May 2024. My department currently await the submission of the Stage 2b report. On submission of this report, my department will carry out a detailed review from both a technical and cost perspective. In November 2025, under the Emergency Works Scheme, the Department also approved funding to improve accessibility at the school’s main entrance and lobby for Special Needs facilities.

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation.

This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.

A total capital allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth has been confirmed for the period 2026-2030 under the National Development Plan. As part of this NDP allocation my department will place a strong emphasis on provision for children with special educational needs, with a particular focus on meeting annual school place needs. In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional School Accommodation scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs.

As part of the NDP Implementation Plan for the education and youth sector, a first tranche of projects to progress to tender and/or construction during 2026 and 2027 was published in January 2026. Prioritisation will continue to identify further tranches of projects to proceed to tender and construction over the NDP period, with stakeholder consultation to commence in June 2026.

Our NDP Implementation Plan will optimise outputs from the NDP allocations, with a strong focus on maximising existing school capacity, progressing priority projects where local capacity across schools in the area is insufficient, and ensuring delivery that is affordable, offers value for money, and meets functional needs.

The current status of all projects continues to be set out under item number ten at the following link: www.gov.ie. This is updated on a regular basis to reflect project progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.

Schools Building Projects

Ceisteanna (173)

Shane Moynihan

Ceist:

173. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on a number of school building projects in Dublin mid-west (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40518/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

St Thomas JNS & Scoil Áine SNS

The joint school building project will deliver two new 24 classroom primary schools with accommodation for children with special educational needs, at the current site in Lucan.

The project is currently at an early stage of Architectural Planning Stage 1 – Initial Sketch Scheme. A preferred design option has been agreed by all Stakeholders and my Department have requested the Design Team to further assess the proposed construction programme and methodology.

The stage 1 report was received by my Department in May 2025 and is currently under review. Upon completion of the review, my Department will advise both schools and their design team regarding project progression.

With regard to this campus project referenced by the Deputy, this project is at preliminary design (Stage 1) and was therefore not at an appropriate stage of readiness for inclusion in the initial tranche of projects for tender and construction.

Devine Mercy JNS & SNS

This joint school building project will deliver a new extension and refurbishment of some existing accommodation to provide a 24 classroom primary school with classrooms for children with special educational needs, at both schools.

The schedule of accommodation was recently increased to include SEN accommodation and the design options submitted by the Design Team are being evaluated by my Department.

A meeting of all stakeholders is anticipated to be held in the near future, to discuss and agree a preferred option which can be further developed and prepared to be submitted for planning permission.

Lucan Community College

The major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is a large scale capital project for the construction of a new extension and the refurbishment of existing facilities to accommodate 1,000 pupils, including provision for Special Educational Needs (SEN) classrooms.

More than four years has elapsed since the publication of the contract notice and more than two years since the tender submission deadline. Given the passage of time since tenders were returned and the unacceptably high risk that the contract may not successfully be delivered within budget, the ETB were instructed to collapse the tender procedure in July 2025.

Phase 1 of the project is currently being delivered under my Department's Modular Framework to deliver 9 general classrooms and 2 specialist classrooms.

Phase 1 also includes the repurposing of part of the existing accommodation to include classrooms for children with Special Educational Needs in the interim.

The subsequent phases of the Project to deliver the remaining accommodation is currently under review and my Department will be in contact with the School and Patron body once this has review has been completed.

Subsequent phases will be considered, in due course, as part of our overall prioritisation processes for future tranches of project rollout that are deliverable within parameters of NDP funding”

St. Kevin's Community College, Clondalkin

I wish to advise the Deputy that my department is in receipt of an application for capital funding, under the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme, from the school in question.

I can confirm to the Deputy that the school's application is being considered by my officials and they have been in contact with the school authorities in relation to this application. My officials remain available to work with the school authorities throughout this process. I can assure the Deputy that the application will be progressed as soon as possible and an official decision will issue to the school authorities directly.

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation.

This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.

I would like to advise the Deputy, over this period, my Department has provided €1,906.47 million in capital funding for Dublin schools. A total of 261 schools have been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation. 20 school projects were included in the NDP Implementation Plan to go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027.

There are currently 54 school projects in Dublin under construction. This summer, 53 schools are approved to undergo works as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.

In addition, since 2020 a total of 529 special classes have been sanctioned in Dublin, of which 128 were sanctioned for September 2026.

School Staff

Ceisteanna (174)

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

174. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on pension parity and leave entitlements negotiations for secretaries and caretakers; when this process will be completed; the proposals her Department is putting forward as possible resolutions [39844/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

School secretaries and caretakers are at the heart of the school and are the key interface between students, parents, school leaders, and other staff. Without them, our schools would be unsustainable. In supporting these vital school staff members, we also support the school community as a whole.

My Department has been engaging with Fórsa and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation over the past number of months under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission in relation to a number of claims, including a claim for a comparable pension entitlement.

The matter was referred to the Labour Court. The parties remain in process, and my department remains committed and ready to engage with Fórsa to reach a resolution on this important matter. As with any industrial relations process, where engagement is sensitive and complex, the matters under discussion are confidential until this process concludes.

Question No. 175 answered with Question No. 169.

Educational Disadvantage

Ceisteanna (176)

Joanna Byrne

Ceist:

176. Deputy Joanna Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Youth the avenues now available to Drogheda schools who were excluded from the DEIS plus scheme to pursue this designation (details supplied). [40626/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

Addressing educational disadvantage and ensuring that every child and young person can reach their full potential is a key priority for the Minister for Education and Youth and for the Government. The new DEIS Plus scheme, which will commence this year and was launched as part of the DEIS Strategy to 2035, represents the most significant expansion of targeted supports since the establishment of DEIS. DEIS Plus is designed to provide enhanced, evidence-based supports to a cohort of 121 schools with the highest concentrations of children and young people at risk of educational disadvantage, identified through a refined data-based model that draws on a range of indicators associated with persistent and intergenerational disadvantage.

This approach ensures that additional resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact and forms a core element of the wider €48 million full-year investment across both the DEIS Strategy and the DEIS Plus scheme. Approximately 30,000 children and young people attending DEIS Plus schools will benefit from these targeted supports.

The DEIS Strategy to 2035 also acknowledges that students at risk of educational disadvantage are present in all schools. It therefore focuses on improving outcomes, encouraging innovation and ensuring schools can access the right supports when needed.

As part of the DEIS Plus identification process, the DEIS Plus identification model was applied nationally to DEIS Urban Band 1 primary schools and DEIS post-primary schools. Using this model, schools were identified for inclusion in the DEIS Plus scheme through an objective and data-based approach that applies nationally available indicators consistently across all schools. The identification model is underpinned by a range of administrative data on every child and young person enrolled in primary and post-primary school.

The department recognises that some schools are operating in the context of complex local pressures within their wider communities. While these challenges are often well understood locally, they are not always captured in datasets that can be fairly and consistently applied across the entire school system. A rules-based national model must consider all schools on the same basis; it cannot substitute locally held knowledge for data that are not available or comparable nationwide.

Schools that were not satisfied with the outcome following the application of the DEIS Plus identification model to their school enrolment data had the opportunity to have that outcome reviewed through the formal appeals process. Schools had the opportunity to update their school enrolment data for the years 2023/2024, 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 on POD and PPOD where they identified that the information already provided was not an accurate reflection of their school enrolment for those years. Schools also had the opportunity to request that the application of the model to their existing data be reviewed.

The appeal process did not provide for the submission of additional contextual information outside of the nationally available data sources used in the model. There is no separate alternative process for the submission of additional contextual information outside of the established DEIS Plus appeal process. The DEIS Plus identification and appeal processes were designed to operate on the basis of nationally available and consistently applied data sources in order to ensure fairness and consistency across all schools.

My department will continue to monitor and evaluation the implementation and impact of the DEIS Plus scheme, DEIS Strategy to 2035 and associated initiatives. Any future allocation of resources will be considered over the lifetime of the DEIS Strategy to 2035 and in the context of available resources.

School Transport

Ceisteanna (177)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

177. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education and Youth to outline her plans to expand capacity on school bus transport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39682/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

The scheme has expanded significantly over the past six years. In that time, the numbers of children and young people using the service have grown from under 120,000 pupils in 2018 to over 181,000 pupils in 2025, which equates to an increase of close to 50%.

The scheme is demand-led based on the number of eligible children who apply and pay on time. Families are required to register their details on the Bus Éireann Family Portal to have their eligibility for transport assessed and to make applications under the scheme.

The closing date for applications and payments for the 2026/27 school year was 08 May 2026 and the portal is now temporarily closed.

Bus Éireann are currently assessing all on time applications and payments received and planning for routes and services for the 2026/27 school year. Routes may be altered or extended depending on the number and location of children who will be availing of school transport for the following school year.

Where a child is eligible for transport and the application and payment process has been completed on time, they will get a seat on a school bus service, where a service is available.

Where a child is not eligible for school transport, but the application and payment process has been completed on time, they will be considered for any spare seats available after eligible children have been accommodated. These seats are called concessionary seats.

There may be more demand than availability for concessionary seats. In such cases, Bus Éireann will use a selection process to allocate tickets for the spare seats.

Tickets will begin issuing in July and continue to issue throughout the summer. Where pupils are unsuccessful in receiving tickets, refunds will issue from Bus Éireann.

The portal will reopen on 01 July 2026. Applications or payments/medical card details entered after the portal reopens will be considered late and a service may not be available. Additionally, late applications cannot be considered for a Remote Area Grant for the 2026/27 school year.

Educational Disadvantage

Ceisteanna (178)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

178. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Education and Youth the appeals process for schools that failed to receive categorisation as Deis Plus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40804/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

Addressing educational disadvantage and ensuring that every child and young person can reach their full potential is a key priority the Minister for Education and Youth and for the Government. The new DEIS Plus scheme, which will commence this year, launched as part of the DEIS Strategy to 2035, represents the most significant expansion of targeted supports since the establishment of DEIS. DEIS Plus is designed to provide enhanced, evidence-based supports to a cohort of 121 schools with the highest concentrations of children and young people at risk of educational disadvantage, identified through a refined data-based model that draws on a range of indicators associated with persistent and intergenerational disadvantage.

Schools that were not satisfied with the outcome following the application of the DEIS Plus identification model to their school enrolment data have the opportunity to have that outcome reviewed through the formal appeals process.

All eligible schools were contacted directly regarding the appeals process. Schools were given the opportunity to update their school enrolment data for the years 2023/2024, 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 on POD and PPOD where they identified that the information already provided was not an accurate reflection of their school enrolment for those years. Schools also had the opportunity to request that the application of the model to their existing data be reviewed. The appeal process closed on 25 May 2026. Information on the appeal process can be found at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/circulars/deis-plus-scheme-appeal-process/.

School Equipment

Ceisteanna (179)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

179. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the introduction of digital devices in schools is placing a severe financial burden on families; if she will provide updated guidance to boards of management in this area; if she will consider a pause on the introduction of digital devices in schools until she commissions an independent review of the impact of digital learning on literacy, retention and equity, noting that many countries are now moving away from digital devices and back to traditional educational methods; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40774/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

I have this week communicated directly with all schools and boards of management, clarifying the department's position that there is no requirement for a personal device for junior or leaving cert and I requested schools to be cognisant of the views of parents in relation to the use of digital devices and the associated costs. Also, I stressed the need for schools to engage with all parents - and not just the Parent's Association - before deciding on an approach regarding devices.

I will continue to engage with educational stakeholders on this matter.

However, the provision and use of digital devices in post-primary schools is a matter for the board of management, having regard to their unique circumstances, educational programmes and the needs of their students. Schools are best placed to determine how technology can support teaching and learning in their settings, including decisions relating to device usage.

Department guidance states that schools should support equitable access to ICT for all students and may provide devices on loan to students (via device loan schemes) where required. Schools are also advised to consult with parents and the wider school community when developing technology policies that may involve costs for families. However, there is no dedicated funding stream for one-to-one student devices. Schools have flexibility to use their ICT grants to meet local priorities, including infrastructure, maintenance and device provision, within available resources.

The Digital Strategy for Schools to 2027, the departments strategy on ICT in schools, does not mandate or prescribe the use of any particular devices or technologies in teaching and learning, it is concerned with the deeper embedding of digital technologies in education, to develop digital literacy and competency, critical thinking, and enhance collaborative learning, it is not merely about replacing physical textbooks and resources with digital versions accessed via a digital device.

Through the digital strategy, schools are directly funded for ICT and have autonomy to determine which infrastructure and devices (including tablets or laptops) are implemented, in line with their Digital Learning Plans. Schools must also have acceptable usage policies in place and may use ICT funding to support new curricula and assessment.

I am keenly aware of the challenges faced by educators and parents in relation to costs of digital technology, including tablets, and my Department continues to work to help support schools and families meet these costs. A number of measures are in place to support educators and parents, as part of my department’s ongoing commitment to reduce financial pressure on families and ensure every student is supported to succeed. This includes an instruction from my department to schools to consult with parents and their school community on the issue of ensuring costs are reasonable for parents, and how to avoid costs acting as a barrier - wherever possible, generic rather than branded items should be specified (e.g. uniform, clothing, IT tablets, sports equipment etc.). Schools should also provide a full list of required items, with guidance on best-value options. Circular 32/2017 sets out the measures to be adopted by schools to reduce the cost of school uniforms and other costs.

Under the Digital Strategy for Schools to 2027, some €200 million has been committed through the National Development Plan for school ICT, with around €170 million already allocated to schools. The most recent tranche of the ICT Grant €35 million which issued to schools in January 2026. Funding is provided through annual ICT grants based on a flat-rate per school and a per-student amount, and must be used for ICT infrastructure, including networks, classroom technology, software and shared student devices. To provide certainty for schools, the ICT grant payment timeline has been standardised, with payments now scheduled for the December/January period each year.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Department has already engaged extensively with the OECD on this matter. The department commissioned OECD research on the impact of digital technologies on student learning was published in September 2025. This research highlights that access to digital devices alone does not guarantee improved learning outcomes, and that their successful use depends on thoughtful pedagogical alignment, teacher and student digital competencies and careful planning. That OECD work confirms that digital technologies can support improved learning outcomes where they are used in a purposeful and structured way.

School Transport

Ceisteanna (180)

Grace Boland

Ceist:

180. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of the implementation of the school transport review; and specifically, the steps taken to date to reduce the distance criteria for eligibility under the school transport scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40724/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth that has expanded significantly over the past six years. In that time, the numbers of children and young people using the service have grown from under 120,000 pupils in 2018 to over 181,000 pupils including over 24,000 pupils with Special Educational Needs in 2025 which equates to an increase of over 50%. Since 2018, investment in the scheme has more than doubled, from €200 million to €537 million.

The School Transport 2030 report was published in early 2024. The recommended changes to the schemes include expansion of the current eligibility criteria, addressing current operational challenges and moving towards better integration with public transport to ensure the best value for money to the Exchequer.

It was outlined at the time the Review was published that the proposed changes to the eligibility criteria would further increase demand for the scheme. Therefore, it was considered prudent to implement the changes on a phased basis.

As part of this phased rollout, 14 School Transport pilots commenced in the 2024/25 school year. A further 11 pilots were approved for the 2025/26 school year. For these pilots, the distance criteria for pupils are reduced to 2km for primary and post primary and the need for a pupil to be attending their nearest school is removed.

Due to ongoing challenges in the wider transport sector, including availability of drivers and vehicles, any expansion of services must be carefully planned and phased. While pilot projects are considered in select areas to test revised eligibility criteria, these pilots are limited in scope and capacity.

All pilots are being monitored, and a further evaluation will take place at the end of the current school year. Findings from these evaluations will guide the planning and implementation needed for a national rollout of a revised School Transport Scheme subject to the availability of resources.

Implementation of the recommendations of the review will continue to be planned subject to resources being available to meet the expected increased demand.

Special Educational Needs

Ceisteanna (181)

Eoghan Kenny

Ceist:

181. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Youth her views on whether a centralised application system should be created within her Department and operated by the NCSE, similar to the system they use in the Education Authority in Northern Ireland for the allocation of school places; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39846/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

Enabling 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 promotes that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.

The rollout of the pilot Single Online Application for Schools represents a significant step towards improving the school admissions system. The Apply to School pilot scheme was launched in October 2025 for the 2026/2027 admissions cycle and was introduced for 15 post-primary schools in five school planning areas namely Athenry, Celbridge, Clonakilty, Greystones and Tullamore Killina.

Detailed post-project evaluations carried out with the participating schools will be carefully considered and integrated into future iterations of the scheme. Work is progressing on the next phase of this project which will include clarity on greater system functionality and a larger cohort of participating schools. Key deliverable improvements to the system aimed at further enhancing user experiences are targeted for the next phase of the project.

As part of the work towards a nationwide common admission system, schools are encouraged to coordinate their admissions policies with other schools in their area to ensure that local applicants for both mainstream and special classes are adequately catered for in local schools.

The common application system pilot is ongoing in some areas of the country, running concurrently is the extension of the autism class application trial (ACAT) in the Dublin 15 area. There are 18 schools participating in the ACAT trial, 17 at primary level and one special school for 2026/27.

These pilots form an important step towards delivering a more efficient, transparent, and equitable school application process. It will reduce stress for families, ease administrative burdens on schools, while also supporting better planning for school places.

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.

Scoileanna Gaeilge agus Gaeltachta

Ceisteanna (182)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

182. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Mairéad Farrell den Minister for Education and Youth an dtabharfaidh sí an t-eolas is déanaí maidir le hoibreacha atá á ndéanamh ar scoil an Tuairín i mBéal an Daingin; an bhfuil cead ann ón Roinn Oideachais chun an post a fhógairt; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [40786/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

Ceadaíodh maoiniú don scoil a luadh faoin scéim um Chóiríocht Scoile Bhreise de chuid mo Roinne chun seomra ranga príomhshrutha amháin agus trí sheomra teagaisc d’oideachas speisialta a sholáthar. Tá freagracht ar sheachadadh na n-oibreacha sannta d’údarás na scoile. Fuarthas tuarascáil Céim 2B i mí Lúnasa 2025 agus tá athbhreithniú á dhéanamh uirthi faoi láthair ó thaobh na teicneolaíochta agus an chostais araon.

Beidh gach tionscadal tógála scoile, an ceann seo san áireamh, faoi réir an díchill chuí riachtanach atá leagtha amach sna Treoirlínte Bonneagair. Tá sé ríthábhachtach am, raon feidhme agus costas a bhainistiú chun a chinntiú go bhfanfaidh an clár tógála scoile foriomlán laistigh dá theorainneacha maoinithe. Tá an tionscadal seo mar chuid den phíblíne fhoriomlán tionscadal tógála scoile, a leanfar de bheith á mbainistiú de réir pharaiméadair an PFN.

Schools Building Projects

Ceisteanna (183)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

183. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide a clear and immediate timeline for when the new building works at a school (details supplied) will commence; and any direct support from her Department to ensure there are no further delays in progressing this project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40815/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

As previously advised, the school referred to by the deputy was approved to enter my department’s pipeline of school buildings under the Additional School Accommodation Scheme for a project providing one mainstream classroom, one special education tuition (SET) room and one special educational needs (SEN) classroom and ancillary. The project is devolved to the school authority for delivery.

This project remains at stage 2b (detailed design). The Stage 2b report has been submitted to my department and is undergoing a thorough review from both a technical and cost perspective. All school building projects, including this one, will undergo the necessary due diligence outlined in the Infrastructure Guidelines. Managing timing, scope, and cost is crucial to ensuring that the overall school building programme remains within the funding parameters.

Although this project is not within the first tranche of school building projects recently published in the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan, it remains part of my department’s overall pipeline of school building projects. The NDP Sectoral Plan involves a very strong emphasis on maximising existing capacity and prioritisation of school building projects to meet the most urgent needs. In this regard there will be a strong special education dimension to project rollout.

My department will continue to build on the progress made over recent years with the continued rollout of projects on a prioritised basis to meet the most urgent needs in terms of provision of additional capacity and modernisation of existing facilities.

As part of planning ahead for the next tranche of projects to progress to tender, the department-led prioritisation process will continue over the course of 2026 and 2027 to assess and evaluate the progression of individual projects through the design pipeline having regard to the continual need to maximise existing capacity and determine the prioritised needs going forward. This process will involve engagement with key stakeholders and individual schools and will ultimately inform the next tranches of programme rollout to tender. The department-led Energy and Condition Survey of the school estate, which will be finalised later in 2026, will provide an additional evidence base for assessing priorities.

Based on this ongoing prioritisation process some projects may be added to the list over the course of 2026 and 2027 having regard to their prioritisation and urgency of need and taking account also of the ongoing ability to progress them to tender and construction within the parameters of overall funding. Where appropriate, my department will also assess opportunities to undertake advance enabling works for the most urgent and complex projects to facilitate a smooth progression to construction in 2028 and beyond.

Any interim accommodation requirements will continue to be assessed and considered by my department on a case-by-case basis to determine the prioritised needs and approach for addressing same.

The accommodation needs at this school will be considered as part of the ongoing overall department-led prioritisation process, in consultation with the school’s patron and school authorities.

Question No. 184 answered with Question No. 169.

Special Educational Needs

Ceisteanna (185)

Ruth Coppinger

Ceist:

185. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Youth to report on capital investment in the provision of additional needs education supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40387/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Youth

Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. Special needs education is part of the overall school building programme and is fully integrated into the delivery of school building projects. This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.

16 new special schools have been established since 2020 with a further 4 special schools to be established for September 2026. In the same period 68 existing special schools had school building projects. This combined with projects in construction or due to go to construction in 2026/27 (20 projects) represents over 60% of total special schools.

In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation. To date, there are 546 special classes sanctioned for the 2026/2027 school year.

Last January, I published the €7.55 billion NDP Sectoral Investment Plan for the education and youth sectors for the period 2026 to 2030. This investment builds on progress made over recent years and will support the expansion and modernisation of the school system and the youth sector. Supporting special education provision will be a particular focus.

Of the total €7.55 billion investment, it is envisaged that approximately €5 billion will be used for project rollout to support the delivery and modernisation of school buildings. This project rollout will continue on a prioritised basis to meet the most urgent needs in terms of provision of additional capacity and modernisation of existing facilities and will prioritise project rollout to meet the most urgent needs particularly to support special education needs provision.

Education Policy

Ceisteanna (186)

Darren O'Rourke

Ceist:

186. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the new circular being drafted outlining the role of the SNA; the consultations that have taken place to date to inform the contents of the circular; if she will meet with an organisation (details supplied) in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40771/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth

My department is in the final stages of work on the first Special Needs Assistant Workforce Development Plan and associated documents. The Plan provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and supporting SNAs, children with special educational needs and school communities. It will, through a co-created series of policy developments strengthen, clarify and offer clear direction and consistency to the SNA workforce.

My department has conducted a comprehensive review of the role of the SNA as part of ongoing work on the first SNA Workforce Development Plan. This work was supported by a working group comprising a wide range of stakeholders which met on 15 occasions in recent times, providing input from a number of perspectives. These stakeholders include school management bodies, SNAs, Fórsa, the recognised trade union which represents SNAs, the National Parents Council, the Children’s Rights Alliance.

All of these organisations through their representatives, participated in the dialogue, exchanged views, provided suggested wording and ultimately influenced the final text of the circular.

My department has also conducted significant focus group research as well as a national survey of SNAs to ensure everyone in our school communities was given the opportunity to provide input.

The outcome is a draft circular which provides a clear and detailed description of the range of duties and responsibilities of the evolved SNA role, and which is the product of meaningful collaboration with all those in our school communities.

This work is at an advanced stage and the plan and new circular on the SNA role are due for publication before the end of this quarter of 2026.