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Update on Special Education Classes

The availability of special classes appropriate for children with Down syndrome against the great imbalance in the numbers of Autism/ASD classes is an ongoing concern for members in Down Syndrome Ireland.  While we were delighted to see that there will be an increase in the numbers of special classes for September 2025, we were both disappointed and frustrated to read that the majority of these places will be for children with autism, ensuring “access to the high quality education they deserve” (Minster McEntee – Irish Independent, Friday April 11th2025). 

On Wednesday last, April 30th, the Dáil debated a Labour Party motion on Special Education with a view to ensuring that every child has an appropriate school place in their locality in September 2025. A total of 39 TD’s contributed to the debate, however, not one TD made reference to the issues around specific provision for children with Down syndrome, their associated complex learning needs; or their right to access the ‘high quality of education they deserve’.  

For parents, carers, and advocates who live this reality every day, the silence is loud. Children with Down syndrome also deserve access to high quality education. They also have the right to an education system that sees them, understands their needs, and plans for their futures, not as an afterthought, but with intention and respect. 

We have already met with Ministers on this issue and, as a follow up to the Dail Debate on Wednesday, we have requested a further meeting with the Minister for Special Education, Micheal Moyihan TD. As we continue to engage with both the Department of Education and the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to address the issues of special class provision, we ask that you let us know (via email only please) 

  1.  if your child is affected by the lack of an appropriate special class in your locality 
  2.  if you have made application through the NCSE / SENO to establish a special class appropriate for your child’s need; and if so, what response did you receive. 

Please email your responses or comments to Fidelma Brady fidelma@downsyndrome.ie or Gina Grant GinaGrant@downsyndrome.ie   

The video of the debate can be accessed at this link: https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-04-30/ 

The transcript of the debate, and details of the TD’s who contributed to the debate can be accessed at this link: https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/debates/debate/dail/2025-04-30/9/