National Council for Special Education

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 September 2019

Tuesday, 17 September 2019

Ceisteanna (236)

Ruth Coppinger

Ceist:

236. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will report on the level of liaison between the National Council for Special Education and service providers and preschools to ascertain the level of future need for ASD school places; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37572/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has a statutory function to plan and co-ordinate the provision of education and support services to children with special educational needs, in consultation with the relevant education partners, DCYA and the HSE. This includes the establishment of special class and special school placements in various geographical areas where the NCSE identifies need.

As the Deputy questions relates to how the NCSE consults with the service providers and preschools to plan for future need I have forwarded it to the NCSE for direct reply.