Ministers Helen McEntee TD and Michael Moynihan TD have announced a record €13.1 billion investment in education and youth services under Budget 2026, representing a 7% increase on last year. The package prioritises tackling educational disadvantage, expanding special education, and strengthening school supports.
Tackling Disadvantage and Inclusion
A new DEIS Plus scheme, backed by €48 million, will launch in September 2026 to support pupils at the highest risk of disadvantage in both DEIS and non-DEIS schools. The initiative aims to narrow performance gaps and introduce innovative supports for vulnerable students.
Capitation funding will also rise, with €39 million allocated to increase per-pupil payments across primary, post-primary, and special schools. Urban Band One DEIS schools will see additional targeted increases.
Special Education Expansion
For the first time, Ireland’s special education budget surpasses €3 billion. Funding will provide:
- 1,717 new Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), bringing the total to nearly 24,900.
- 860 additional special education teachers, raising the dedicated workforce to over 46,500.
- €16 million to expand school-based therapy services, including speech and language and occupational therapy, into mainstream schools.
The measures will create 3,000 new placements across special classes and schools for the 2026/27 academic year.
Investment in Schools and Youth Services
- €69 million to strengthen the School Transport Scheme.
- €19 million for curriculum development and teacher training, including Senior Cycle redevelopment.
- €8 million to expand youth services, ensuring tailored supports and safe spaces for young people.
- €2 million for the Convention on Education, enabling children, parents, and educators to shape future policy.
- €3 million to increase deputy principal posts in schools.
Infrastructure and Development
As part of the National Development Plan 2026–2030, €1.6 billion will fund over 300 school building projects currently under construction, with most due for completion by 2027. A further 80 projects are expected to begin within the two-year rolling programme.
Ministerial Statements
Minister McEntee said the budget “breaks down barriers, addresses disadvantage, and helps every child to succeed,” highlighting the rollout of therapy services and increased per-pupil funding.
Minister Moynihan emphasised the scale of investment in special education, noting that the additional staffing and capital funding will ensure “all children and young people have every opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.”
Outlook
With record allocations, Budget 2026 marks a significant step in reshaping Ireland’s education system. By combining targeted supports for disadvantaged students with expanded special education and infrastructure investment, the government aims to deliver a more inclusive and equitable system for the decade ahead.
Minister-for-Education-Helen-McEntee
Sources: Department of Education and Youth; Gov.ie Press Release.
