Special Educational Needs

Thursday, 3 February 2022

Questions (295, 296)

Gary Gannon

Question:

295. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education the number of DEIS primary schools operating with at least one autism class by county in tabular form; and the total number of autism classes. [5714/22]

View answer

Gary Gannon

Question:

296. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Education the number of primary schools operating with at least one autism class by county in tabular form; and the total number of autism classes. [5715/22]

View answer

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

I propose to take Questions Nos. 295 and 296 together.

Enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this Government.

This year, my Department will spend in excess of €2 Billion, or over 25% of the Department’s budget on providing a wide range of schemes and supports for children with special educational needs.

This includes additional teaching and care supports.

As a result, the number of special education teachers, special needs assistants and special class and school places are at unprecedented levels.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide.

Throughout 2020 and 2021, my Department and the NCSE have worked closely on a more streamlined and joined up planning process which has ensured a targeted approach to meet demand for special needs placements ahead of each new school-year

I am satisfied that this more joined up approach is delivering. Through this intensive intervention, we have seen an additional 301 special classes, providing over 1,800 new places, opened nationwide for the 2021/22 school-year.

I want to reassure the Deputy that my Department will continue to support the NCSE and schools through the provision of the necessary funding and capital investment to ensure all children are successful in accessing an education.

The specific detail requested by the Deputy has been referred to the NCSE for direct reply.

Question No. 296 answered with Question No. 295.