Urgent review of special education placements in Clare schools sought by councillors

Concerns about the availability and adequacy of additional needs placements in Clare schools have prompted calls for an urgent review, emphasising that education is “not a one hat fits all.”

The October meeting of Clare County Council saw councillor Ian Lynch highlight the need for review on the  provision of additional needs placements in primary and secondary schools in Clare schools.

In his motion, which was discussed by elected members the Kilrush-based councillor called on the council to request that the Minister for Education "initiate an immediate review of the provision of additional needs placements in primary and secondary schools." This review, the motion adds, "should ensure the availability of appropriate and sufficient spaces for all students with additional needs within County Clare."

Cllr Lynch continued: "The scope of the review should encompass both current capacity and  projected future requirements, particularly addressing the transition of students from primary to  secondary education. Furthermore, the review should prioritize the provision of adequate  facilities and staffing levels within the local area to minimize the burden of travel on families.”

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Address the meeting, Cllr Lynch stressed how education is "not a one hat fits all" and those who have additional needs deserve to have a place in a school that has the resources they need.

He explained how currently "before a child is born, you have to worry about getting them into preschool, especially if your child has special needs" he further stressed this worry on parents saying "I have parents with kids in first class already worried about their secondary school placements."

Cllr Lynch stated he is proposing a review be carried out now so that the "proper steps can be put into place in two or three years."

The motion was supported by all who spoke on the proposal with one councillor saying: "It's evolving right in front of our eyes... we have to protect children with special needs."

Sinn Fein councillor James Ryan voiced his support: "12 or 13 years old and you're pretty much on your own. I know of a number of schools that have no provisions in place for support [of special needs students]."

Cllr Mary Howard highlighted how it is a huge issue trying to meet the needs of the students.

She explained how she met a school bus driver in Eire Og whose first pick-up was in Ballyheean at 7:30 am for a primary school in Shannon.

Cllr Howard used this example to illustrate how long of a day some children are subjected to to go to a school that has the facilities to support their additional needs, stating "a child should not have to travel over an hour to school."

It was also highlighted in the chamber that some families may have two or three children that have to go to different schools to get the supports they need, and emphasised the stress that this can put families under.

Fianna Fáil councillor Antoinette Baker-Bashua said: "It's a whole life issue, parents are broken down from fighting from the day their child is born."

She further explained: "Sometimes a child is 6..7..8..9 before they are diagnosed with an invisible syndrome and at that stage behavioural issues may already be in place because early intervention is key."