Schools Reluctant To Open Special Classes Could Be Compelled To Do So Amid "Snobbery" Concerns

Monday, 3 March 2025 11:48

By Martin Osborne

Deputy Moynihan said he is "fiercely puzzled" by a "reluctance" from some schools to accommodate children in special classes.

Schools could be compelled to open special classes if they are reluctant to do so.

That's according to Disabilities Minister Michael Moynihan.

For years, parents have contacted Kfm citing difficulties accessing special classes for their children.

Deputy Moynihan said he is "fiercely puzzled" by a "reluctance" from some schools to accommodate children in special classes.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, he said snobbery has no role to play in providing special classes.

"Why should it be the case that the school authorities think that they are lowering the tone of their school by having [a special unit], Why should that be the case?" he said.

He added: "Why haven't we been able to sell that as a society, as embracing all of the children? Why would we even discuss whether it is or it isn't a snobbery issue?"

Over the weekend, parents staged a 24-hour sleep-out outside the Department of Education to highlight the difficulties they have securing a school places for children with additional needs.

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