331. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will consider the case of a child (details supplied) with a diagnosis of autism and a moderate intellectual disability who, despite applications to a number of special schools, has been unable to secure a school place for the current academic year; and the steps that will be taken to ensure that an appropriate school placement is provided without further delay. [67853/26]

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.

The NCSE has advised that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) is working closely with the student’s family regarding options for school placements and other special education supports for the school year.

My department and the NCSE have sanctioned 587 new special classes for the school year 2026/27, including 70 inclusive special classes. This is one of many ways my department is actively engaging to meet the increased demand.

This brings the total number of special classes sanctioned to date to over 4,300. Forward planning has already commenced ahead of the 2027/28 school year.

Local SENOs are available to offer advice, support and guidance as required to ensure students with special educational needs are supported to achieve their full potential.

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.