Taoiseach allocates extra Special Education Needs Organiser to cover County Wicklow

Announcing the allocation on Wednesday, April 17, the Taoiseach said: “I am delighted to confirm that after months of campaigning some progress is finally coming Wicklow’s way regarding Special Education provision.

“I am delighted to confirm that an additional Special Education Needs Organiser is now set to work in County Wicklow. I have been in contact with a number of parents and schools regarding the supports available for students with additional needs in the west Wicklow area especially.

“I made contact with John Kearney, the Chief Executive Officer for Special Education, requesting urgent action to address the lack of supports. SENOs offer vital supports to students and families. This extra SENO will help even more families manage their child’s education and ensure that they get the best start in life.

“I want to ensure that these supports are made available all across County Wicklow and I will continue to tirelessly campaign for this. As always I will be sure to keep you all updated and as Taoiseach I will continue to push for extra investment in educational supports,” he concluded.

It comes as the Ombudsman for Children said last week that it is promising the Taoiseach has prioritised children with the appointment of a super junior minister in special education and the establishment of a Cabinet subcommittee on children, disability and education.

Hildegarde Naughton will take on the role as Minister of State for Special Education and leave her current position as junior minister at the Department of Health.

Dr Niall Muldoon said it was his priority to ensure that every child with special education needs will have a school place this September and that adequate services for them are being provided in schools.