David Stanton
Question:50. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education her plans to establish a special school in east County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30099/20]
View answerWednesday, 14 October 2020
Questions (50)
Written answers
Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education appropriate to their needs is a priority for this Government. Next year, over 20% of the total Education budget or €2bn will be invested in supporting children with special needs.
This investment will support the provision of over 1,200 additional special class places. Notwithstanding the extent of this investment, there are some parts of the country, including Cork, where increases in population and other issues have led to concerns regarding a shortage of school places.
Through better planning at both national and local level, it is my objective that specialist education places should come on stream to meet emerging demand on a timely basis.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide. The NCSE is working with schools, patron bodies, parents and others in East County Cork to ensure there are sufficient special education placements to meet local need. However, there are no plans for a new special school in the area at this time.