Northern Ireland Education Minister, Paul Givan, has called for a flagship Executive investment programme to transform educational facilities for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

He said: “We are at a critical juncture.

“Our special schools are full, our facilities are outdated, and the demand for specialist provision is growing year on year.

“Without decisive action, we risk failing the children who need our support most.”

In a statement to the Assembly, the Minister revealed his proposals for a £1.7bn, Executive-led SEN Capital Investment Programme.

The strategic initiative would transform the infrastructure supporting Northern Ireland’s most-vulnerable learners.

The proposed ring-fenced fund would support:

• New builds and campuses for special schools
• Expansion of specialist provision in mainstream schools
• Over 6,000 additional special school places and 5,000 specialist class places

Givan said: “The current education capital budget is already stretched to its limits, with a £800m maintenance backlog.

“It simply cannot absorb the level of investment required.

“This is not just an education issue; it is a societal obligation.

“We must invest in facilities that empower our children, support our teachers, and uphold our commitment to inclusion and equity.

“The Education Authority has published detailed plans for all 40 special schools, outlining short, medium, and long-term capital works. These plans form the blueprint for transformation, but require Executive endorsement and funding to proceed.”

And he concluded: “I urge all parties to unite behind this proposal.

“Let us move from patchwork solutions to purposeful transformation.

“Let us invest not only in buildings, but in hope, opportunity, and the dignity of every child who relies on us to get this right.”