Walsh criticises “two-tier” educational system

Labour councillor John Walsh has said that students with additional needs are facing a “two-tier” educational experience.

Statistics from the Castleknock councillor revealed that over 100 children with additional education needs in Dublin 15 could not secure an appropriate placement last year, and that many parents and children are facing a wait of “many months, if not years” to secure an appropriate place in a special class.

Per Walsh, Danu Community School admitted 12 new students in September 2024 at the request of the National Council for Special Education, but the 12 students will not be able to actually avail of the places because modular accommodation has not been provided by the Department of Education.

“If a country is defined by how we treat our most vulnerable people, Ireland still has a long way to go to become an inclusive and civilised society,” Walsh said.

“The government has engaged in publicity stunts and meaningless rhetoric rather than delivering on essential services and places for neurodivergent children.”

The Labour councillor said that more needs to be done to deliver focused action to deliver inclusive public spaces.

“Too many neurodivergent people and their families face barriers when trying to access public spaces, from sensory overload to a lack of quiet zones and inadequate facilities,” he said.

“Labour is calling for a nationwide commitment to ensuring all towns, cities, and villages meet the needs of autistic people. Public spaces in Dublin 15 and across the country must be accessible to all.”

With World Autism Day being marked on April 2, Walsh said, “we must acknowledge that too often, decisions are made without consulting those most affected.”

“The government must actively engage with neurodivergent people to understand what changes will make the biggest difference in education, health and public services generally.”

“We are calling urgent action to ensure that no one in Dublin 15 or beyond is excluded from public spaces.”

In November 2023, Dublin City Council announced an initiative to become the world’s first “autism-friendly capital city,” with the process involving consultation with local businesses to make facilities more accommodating for people on the autism spectrum.