Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation
Dail Éireann — 2025-12-18
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Simon Harris (FG), Wicklow

I thank Deputy O'Rourke for raising this serious and important issue. I think we would acknowledge on all sides of the House that this is something that was done for a good reason, which is the idea of trying to get sight of the number of children who would require a special educational needs place earlier because it is not fair, and it is far too stressful to leave it too late. It was the germ of a good idea, and, in fact, it needs to come earlier every year. I have spoken to some of these parents, and I am aware that sometimes there can be a delay for a good reason. People might not be able to get access to certain reports they need or whatever. Life can happen, and there are a number of parents who will require places for their children. The NCSE is giving consideration to it. I am not in a position to comment. It is not for me to make an announcement here, but I certainly think it is inevitable that it will have to be reopened so that a resolution can be found. I will pass on the Deputy's views to the Minister.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2025-12-18/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:29+00:00
Sitting date: 2025-12-18