Minister must deliver special classes for Kildare South - TD

A Sinn Féin TD for Kildare South has called on Minister for Special Education, Michael Moynihan, to see to it that additional special classes be sanctioned in Kildare South for September 2026. 

Sinn Féin's spokesperson for Special Education, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh TD made her comments in response to an announcement by Minister Moynihan yesterday of seven additional classes being opened in the Kildare area for the coming school year. 

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh said: "It is shocking and extremely disappointing that only one of the seven new classes announced yesterday are situated in the South Kildare constituency.

"There is acute, unmet need for special classes at both primary and post-primary levels in South Kildare and yet this allocation does not recognise that at all. 

"South Kildare is one of the fastest growing population centres in the country and yet, as is so often the case, public services are lagging behind.”

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Deputy Ní Raghallaigh said she has been engaging with many parents and a number of schools who are “crying out” for additional resources but are “kept in the dark” by the Department.

Yesterday's news will be a “huge blow” to communities right across the constituency, she said.

"I am aware of several children who are without an appropriate place for September 2026. These families are sick with anxiety as they wait to hear whether or not their children will be able to go to school with their peers come September.

"One family I have been in contact with has applied to 40 schools and has had no luck with any school to date. They are now sadly facing the prospect of sending their son to preschool for the third year in a row even though he is willing and able to attend school with the correct supports in place. 

"Every child, regardless of ability, should be able to attend school in their local area alongside their siblings, as is their right. 

"I have been lobbying the Department on behalf of parents and school leaders for the demand in South Kildare be met and will continue to do so until the children of South Kildare are delivered for. I am hoping to see a more equitable allocation for South Kildare in upcoming tranches.”