Minister for Education Joe McHugh has warned schools in the south Dublin area that he is prepared to use new powers to direct them to provide more places for children with special needs.
On Thursday Mr McHugh confirmed that he has formally activated new legislation which can lead to the issuing of a statutory notice ordering schools to accommodation children with special needs. “We want to see children with special needs in a welcoming school environment. Their presence will enrich a school ... I am concerned that engagement with schools in south Dublin has not secured sufficient special education provision but I am also conscious that schools need to be properly supported to provide special education.”
“Providing support, care and education for a child with special needs can bring worries and concerns that not everyone can fully appreciate. It is our job to try and eliminate some of the additional difficulties and stresses,” he said. Ultimately, the Minister can invoke a power to direct a school to provide additional special education provision.