Minister Moynihan opens NCSE Research Conference on Inclusive Education

Minister Moynihan opens NCSE Research Conference on Inclusive Education


NCSE conference explores research, policy and practice supporting inclusive education and belonging


Press Release: 04 November 2026


Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion Michael Moynihan will today (Wednesday) 4 November open the National Council for Special Education (NCSE)’s Annual Research Conference at Croke Park, Dublin.

The conference brings together leading national and international researchers, policymakers, practitioners and stakeholders to explore current evidence and emerging research on inclusive education, student wellbeing, belonging and educational provision.

Opening the conference, Minister Michael Moynihan said:

“This conference comes at an important time for special education and inclusion in Ireland. The government’s investment in special education is at its highest ever level and across our education system, we are continuing to expand supports and increase educational opportunities for children and young people with additional needs. Alongside these developments, it is essential that we remain informed by high-quality research that helps us understand what inclusion looks like in practice and how we can strengthen every student’s sense of belonging in their school and community.”


“Belonging is about more than access to education. It is about ensuring that every child feels welcomed, valued, respected and supported to achieve their full potential. The work being presented at this year’s NCSE Research Conference will contribute important insights to inform policy development, educational planning and the ongoing enhancement of inclusive educational experiences across Ireland.”


The conference programme will feature presentations from internationally recognised experts including Professor Erik Carter, Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing at Baylor University, who will examine his ten dimensions of belonging; Professor Elizabeth Walton, University of Nottingham, who will discuss an ecological approach to inclusive education; and Dr Caoimhe Dempsey, University College Cork, who will share findings from her work on supporting student wellbeing in Irish school contexts. Other speakers include Dr Mary Kelly, President of Hibernia Colleges Group, and Dr Deirdre MacIntyre, Dean of Research and Academic Affairs at ICEP Europe who will also discuss current research and insights on inclusive education in Ireland.

Welcoming the conference, John Kearney, Chief Executive Officer of the NCSE, said:

“Research plays a critical role in supporting evidence-informed policy and practice. This year’s conference provides an opportunity to explore how schools, communities and education systems can foster inclusion and belonging for all learners while also addressing emerging challenges and opportunities within special education.”

The conference will see attendees from across the education sector, including school leaders, teachers, researchers, policymakers, parents and advocates.