Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 December 2018
240. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the lack of special needs units in schools in the Lucan area; his plans to address this shortage in view of the number of families with children with special needs in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53289/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for the establishment of special class and special school placements in various geographical areas where there is an identified need, in consultation with the relevant education partners and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The NCSE is aware of emerging need from year to year in Dublin, and where special class or special school provision is required, it is planned and established to meet that need.
I have arranged for the Deputy's question on emerging need in the Lucan area to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
My Department is aware that the establishment of special provision in some schools and communities can be challenging.
The Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018 will assist in addressing this issue in areas where the NCSE is of the opinion that there is insufficient education provision for children with special educational needs.
Section 8 of the Act, which commenced on the 3rd of December 2018, provides the Minister with a power, after a process of consultation with the NCSE, the board of management and the patron of the school, to compel a school to make additional provision for the education of children with special educational needs.
