571. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of places that will be available in a special school (details supplied); if she will provide information on the application and selection process for these places and details of the catchment area for this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34363/26]

583. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide details regarding the new special school announced for Citywest; the timeline for and details of the project; when enrolment will be opening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34413/26]

592. Deputy Ann Graves asked the Minister for Education and Youth when the special education school will open in Balbriggan. [34634/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 571, 583 and 592 together.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.

Four new special schools were recently announced by Ministers Naughton and Moynihan to be established in Balbriggan, CityWest, Bray and Monasterevin. Dedicated working groups including the Department, the NCSE and relevant patron body continue to meet to support the establishment of the new special schools. It is expected that details in relation to the admissions process and number of places will be confirmed shortly. The NCSE will continue to advise parents at local level on developments.

The NCSE remains available to provide advice and support to all families seeking specialist placement.

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 achieve their full potential.