Dublin Bay North TD Barry Heneghan has welcomed new special classes for north Dublin, but has expressed concern that Stapolin ETNS has been left out.
Heneghan said he welcomed the announcement by the Department of Education of 168 new special classes nationwide, including classes in his own constituency.
“I am particularly pleased to see new special class provision confirmed for schools in Dublin Bay North, including Manor House Secondary School in Raheny, Grace Park Educate Together National School, St Mary’s Secondary School in Baldoyle, and St Brigid’s Girls National School in Killester. These new classes will make a real and positive difference for children, parents, and school communities, and I want to acknowledge the work of school leaders and staff who have long advocated for these supports.”
However, I must also express my frustration and disappointment that Stapolin Educate Together National School in Baldoyle was not included in this round of allocations. Stapolin ETNS has a clear and well-evidenced need for new additional Autism Classes. I fully support the school’s campaign and effort to urgently secure the additional Autism classes”
He said on Monday “while today’s announcement is welcome, it once again highlights the uneven and uncertain nature of special education planning. Families need clarity, certainty, and timely decisions, not a system where some urgent needs are met while others are left waiting.”
“I will continue to press the Department of Education and the NCSE to urgently review the position of Stapolin ETNS and to ensure that every child in Dublin Bay North who needs a special class place can access one locally and without unnecessary delay,” he said.