There are currently at least 18,000 people - the majority of them children - on a long waiting list for an assessment of need. Photograph: iStockChildren with additional educational needs will no longer need an assessment to access a special class or special school under reforms designed to cut years-long waiting lists for vulnerable children. Minister for Children Norma Foley on Tuesday announced that the Government will replace the existing assessment of need process with a new system. Ms Foley said she wanted to “sincerely acknowledge the commitment and passion” of Ms Darmody. “At the heart of this is children, children with disabilities, who need access to therapies.

Source: The Irish Times December 09, 2025 17:04 UTC