Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2025
51. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education the status of a proposed school for special education in County Monaghan; the number of children that are expected to be enrolled upon the school’s opening in September; the admissions criteria that will be applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5748/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive a befitting 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).
As you are aware five new special schools will be established for the next school year, two in County Dublin and one each in counties Cork, Monaghan and Tipperary. This will bring to 129 the number of NCSE supported special schools in the country.
The new special school in Monaghan will be located in Castleblaney and will operate under the patronage of Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB). Dedicated working groups have been established by my department to work through the details in relation to the establishment of the new special schools, including the new special school in County Monaghan.
It is envisaged that existing buildings will be repurposed, in the first instance, to facilitate the opening of the new special schools for the 2025/26 school year. This will allow the schools to open as quickly as possible.
The exact initial capacity of each special school, including the new school in Monaghan will be considered further and confirmed shortly. Special schools generally operate on the basis of 1 teacher and at least 2 SNAs per class grouping of 6 children. Further supports can be provided if required to meet the needs of the children enrolling in the school.
Parents and families looking to apply for admission to the new special school will be supported and guided by the NCSE at local level and kept updated on developments. The NCSE have held information events with interested parents of children who may require a special school place.
My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential.
