Concerns around school places for children with additional needs must be addressed by the Department of Education as a matter of urgency, according to David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative for Palmerstown-Fonthill.

Gardiner said: “It is imperative that children with additional needs receive the support and resources that they require to thrive both academically and socially. At present, many children with additional needs and their families face significant challenges in accessing educational environments that cater to their unique needs.”

“As it stands, the experience of the school system for children with additional needs is often one that lacks the necessary infrastructure and trained personnel to efficiently support them. Not only does this hamper children’s educational development, but it also impacts self-esteem and general well-being, and adds unnecessary stress on families who already often feel isolated and unheard.”

“There is clear demand for more specialised school places yet the supply remains insufficient. Many parents find themselves in a difficult position, struggling to secure appropriate educational settings for their children. This situation often leads to prolonged waiting periods, which can exacerbate the challenges faced by children. Furthermore, the lack of suitable placements can result in children being placed in mainstream schools without the necessary support, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.”

“To address this issue, it is crucial for the government and educational authorities to prioritise the development of more specialised school places. This can be achieved through a number of avenues, including increased funding, the establishment of new schools specifically designed for children with learning disabilities, and the enhancement of existing facilities to better accommodate their needs. Our education system, particularly our special education system, has long been starved of funding, with many schools understaffed and their teachers overworked. The expansion of training programmes for educators is vital to equip them with the skills and knowledge required to effectively teach and support children with diverse learning needs.”

“The need for more suitable school places for children with learning disabilities in Ireland is an urgent matter that requires collective action. By investing in specialised educational resources and fostering an inclusive environment, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed. It is our responsibility to advocate for these changes and to work towards a future where every child can access the education they deserve.”

“The words of the 1916 Proclamation, “cherishing all the children of the nation equally,” are certainly not being lived up. It is time for the government to act by giving these families the opportunity to see their children flourish in the academic setting.”