Minister urged to fast track school work

A Fianna Fáil TD has urged the Minister for Education to fast track the development of a new school build for Scoil Mochua, Clondalkin.

Deputy John Curran has highlighted the case of the school that has 74 school pupils between the ages of 3-18 who have a range of disabilities including physical and other severe learning disabilities.

Speaking during a special Dáil debate on the matter,  the deputy said he had recently visited the school to meet with management, staff and pupils.

“It was during this visit that I had the opportunity to take a first-hand look at the poor condition of the premises,” Deputy Curran revealed.

“More importantly, I saw the difficulty posed for these children to carry out their daily activities in an inappropriate environment that is not fit for purpose, particularly for those with physical disabilities given that there is no space to manoeuvre wheelchairs or walking equipment.

“The school, which has a large catchment area that spans parts of South and West Dublin and even includes North Kildare, is inadequate for the needs of these children.”

Deputy Curran added: “These children face significant challenges and although the physical condition of the school should not be adding further difficulty, unfortunately it is.”

He revealed that staff at the school had indicated that the Department of Education has assured them that a new school build will be explored in the future. However, he said the children and the pupils who will enrol in the next school year could wait no longer.

“I have called on the Minister to consider advancing this specific project as the condition of the current premises is having a very significant and immediate adverse impact on these children,” he stated.