Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2024
326. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 313 of 14 May 2024, if she can review additional details (details supplied); if the Minister can provide assurance that these concerns will be addressed and confirm that this child will receive an ASD primary school place for the 2024-25 academic year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22966/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
The NCSE has advised my department that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) has been in contact with the family and continues to work closely with them regarding special education placements options.
Over 320 additional special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2024/25 school year. Of these 13 are in County Tipperary. The NCSE continue to sanction classes nationwide for the coming school year. As these new classes are sanctioned, the NCSE will support families to make applications for places. The local SENO will continue to keep the family updated on developments at local level and where places are available in further new special classes being sanctioned by the NCSE. My Department will continue to monitor this case with the NCSE to ensure that an appropriate placement can be provided for the new school year.
My department engages intensely with the NCSE in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places. This forward planning work is well underway ahead of the 2024/25 school year. This work involves a detailed review of statistical data in relation to forecasting demand for special class places, an analysis of available school accommodation, consideration of improved data sharing arrangements and a particular focus on the provision of special classes at post-primary level.
My department and the NCSE are committed to ensuring that sufficient special education placements will be available for children for this school year and future years.
