Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 March 2022
469. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education the number of applications from primary and post-primary schools for special classes which have been refused since 1 January 2020; the counties in which these schools are located in tabular form; and the rationale for the refusal. [11110/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling 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 additional teaching and care supports for children with special educational needs.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs nationwide.
It is open to any school to make an application to the NCSE for the establishment of a specialised provision and where sanctioned, a range of supports, including capital funding, is made available to the school.
I have arranged for the Deputy's query to be referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
