Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 February 2022
77. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Education if she will support the application by a school (details supplied) for the addition of an ASD classroom to allow students with special educational needs to continue to attend their local school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4646/22]
View answerThe provision of accommodation for pupils with special education needs is a priority for my Department. My officials have close engagement with officials in the National Council for Special Education in respect of needs at primary and post primary level and also at special schools. The delivery of accommodation to meet current and future requirements for classes for pupils with special education needs, as identified by the NCSE, is prioritised by my Department.
I understand that St. Patrick's Central National School is currently in discussions with the NCSE about the potential establishment of a class for pupils with special education needs. Where a school is interested in opening a special class, guidance in this respect is available on my Department's website and funding will be provided by my Department under the Additional School Accommodation (or ASA) scheme, if it is required. I welcome the commitment and cooperation from schools to ensure that sufficient places are available for pupils with special education needs.
If a class for pupils with special education needs cannot be facilitated within the school's existing accommodation, my Department's ASA scheme supports the delivery of additional accommodation to meet the need. I understand that enrolments at St. Patrick's Central National School have grown in recent years and it's possible that the provision of additional accommodation would be required to provide a classroom for pupils with special education needs at this school.
I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has not yet received an application for additional accommodation from the school in question, however the school has been advised of the availability of the scheme and of the process for applying to my Department.
