503. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the special school place for a student (details supplied). [64524/26]

Enabling students with special educational needs to receive an education that meets their needs is a priority for this Government. It is also a key priority for me, my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).

The vast majority of students with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where students with more complex needs require additional supports, special class and special school places are provided. This is in keeping with policy on an inclusive education, which promotes that students will be supported to receive an education in the most inclusive setting possible.

The NCSE is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs. The NCSE has advised that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) is working closely with the family of the student referred to by the deputy regarding options for school placements and other special education supports for the coming school year. The local SENO remains available to support and assist the family.

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.