Ireland’s 2027 budget expands education spending and special needs staffing
Ireland’s Budget 2027 allocates €14.4 billion to education and youth services, including record investment in special education. The plan adds about 1,600 teachers, with 1,353 special education teachers, and 2,339 special needs assistants. It also increases capitation funding and provides €687 million for school transport.
Ireland's 2027 education and youth package was presented by Hildegarde Naughton and Michael Moynihan after being announced on 7 October 2026. It commits €14.4 billion overall and aims to widen inclusion while adding school staffing capacity. Roughly 1,600 teaching posts are planned, including 1,353 focused on special education, alongside 2,339 new assistants for pupils with additional needs.
Per-pupil capitation will rise from €274 to €342 at primary level and from €406 to €446 at post-primary level. The transport scheme receives €687 million for more than 180,000 pupils. Other allocations cover curriculum work, DEIS Plus and liaison coordinators, period dignity, education therapy services, teacher training, youth services and school leadership.
The added teaching and assistant posts could ease pressure on families seeking special education support and may help schools include pupils with additional needs. Higher capitation and transport funding may reduce some cost burdens for schools and households. Therapy, youth and disadvantage