I wish to advise the Deputy that the NCSE has the responsibility for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs. It is a matter for schools to allocate supports as required, and on the basis of greatest level of need, which allows schools flexibility in how the supports provided to the school are utilised. Parents of children with special educational needs should discuss their child's individual needs with the school directly.
As previously advised, officials in my Department have commenced work in this area. Specifically, the group will be reviewing guidelines for teachers on students with exceptional abilities which were published in draft format in 2007 by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. This review will take account of the significant reform measures which have been put in place in the Irish education system since 2007.