Special Educational Needs

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022

Tuesday, 14 June 2022

Ceisteanna (1001, 1002)

Patricia Ryan

Ceist:

1001. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Education the number of special education needs organisers in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29964/22]

Patricia Ryan

Ceist:

1002. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Education the number of special education needs organisers in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29965/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1001 and 1002 together.

The 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.

Question No. 1002 answered with Question No. 1001.