Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education, Darren O’Rourke TD, has said that the Minister for Education should be acutely aware of the demand for special classes and special school places, and must ensure that every child has an appropriate school place.

The Meath East TD was speaking in response to a report in today’s Irish Times citing Department of Education figures that the percentage of children with autism has increased threefold in less than a decade, and that this is expected to continue.

Teachta O’Rourke said:

“The figures released by the Department of Education are not new. They highlight a threefold increase in autism diagnoses among schoolchildren, and underscore the urgent need for action to address the growing demand for special education provision. With one in 20 children now diagnosed with autism, it is clear that the education system must adapt swiftly to meet this escalating need.

“The Minister for Education, Helen McEntee, should be acutely aware of this demand. While the establishment of over 1,700 special classes and 11 special schools since 2020 is welcome, it is evident that these measures are not keeping pace with demand. Parents, who are forced to protest and fight for appropriate school places for their children, should not have to endure such hardship. The rejection of children by multiple schools is unacceptable and highlights systemic failures that must be addressed.

“The Department’s own projections indicate that at least 400 new special classes and 200 special school places are needed annually for the next three years, but these are not new numbers. We have seen successive Ministers and Junior Ministers commit to delivering the necessary school places, only for each one to fail. 2025 must be different.

“The rise in diagnoses demand a proportional response in terms of resources, funding, and teacher supply. I urge the Minister to prioritise the accelerated delivery of special education provision, including capital funding for school refurbishment and additional accommodation, as well as targeted recruitment to fill teaching positions in special classes and schools. This will require multi-annual funding.

“Every child has the right to an education that meets their needs. The Minister must listen to the voices of parents, act decisively, and ensure that no child is left behind.”