Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
607. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Education when a new special educational needs organiser will be appointed to the Carlow area following the vacancy arising (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28451/23]
View answerThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of Special needs Organisers (SENOs), for fulfilling the functions of the Council within a designated area in relation to the identification of and delivery and co-ordination of education services to children with disabilities.
The Council employs SENOs to provide a nationwide system of local services. Locally based SENOs consult widely with parents/guardians, teachers, health care professionals, school authorities, HSE and other relevant government agencies.
SENOs are assigned by region, rather than on a county basis. The Carlow area falls under South East Team 2, which is comprised of 3.5 SENOs, a team manager and a regional manager. The recent SENO recruitment competition, which concluded last month, has led to the NCSE extending offers of employment to successful candidates. Consequently, newly appointed SENOs are expected to be assigned to schools across this region shortly.
In addition, where a Team Manager or SENO vacancy arises, a point of contact is assigned to the area to assist schools, parents and local services until the position is filed. Essential services are maintained through cover provided from available staff resources. If parents are unsure of the SENO for their area, they can contact the team manager for the region, who will be able to inform them of the SENO’s details providing interim cover. A list of Regional Manager, Team Manager, and SENO contact details can be found on the regional contact list on the NCSE website.
