Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 May 2022
441. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education the number of complaints received by the National Council for Special Education in 2021; the number pertaining to the ability to contact Special Educational Needs Organisers or engagement with same generally; if she will provide a breakdown of the data; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28147/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is a statutory body established under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act 2004. It was set up to improve the delivery of education services to persons with special educational needs arising from disabilities, with particular emphasis on children.
NCSE has responsibility for co-ordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide in line with my Department's policies.
NCSE has well established structures in place for engaging with schools and parents and seeks to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all children who have been identified as needing special class placements.
Over the last two years, 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.
As the Deputy’s question relates to the NCSE, I will arrange to have it referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
