RIP Michael J. (Mikey) O'Connor
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07 Sept 2025
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07 Sept 2025
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The Darmody family and INSET: The picture of the letter from the school
A Tipperary family has been left fuming after a family member was refused entry to a special school.
Activist and campaigner, Cara Darmody from Ardfinnan, and sister of the boy, Neil, said: "I'm absolutely disgusted and so angry.
"Today is the lowest day of my life. After the high of my brother Neil's Confirmation on Thursday, we've come crashing down to Earth as Neil has been refused enrolment to an appropriate special school placement!
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"He's in Scoil Chormaic in Cashel, who are fantastic, but they cater solely for mild intellectual disability. Neil is PROFOUND!! - it's not a close call, he needs to be in Scoil Aonghusa!
"He's in the wrong school because the HSE misdiagnosed him initially, and this is no reflection on either of these two amazing schools.
"This Government is reckless as to whether Neil suffers further permanent damage.
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"I'm LIVID that the State treats Neil and hundreds of other kids with disabilities like pieces of trash!!
"With all their big announcements, this is the reality of how our Government treats children with disabilities.
"I'm not going to make any dramatic statements right now as I'm so upset, but I will next week. One thing is certain - when they pick a fight with Neil, they're picking a fight with me!
"But my poor Mum is distraught - we didn't even get 24 hours of happiness after the Confirmation. It's absolutely disgusting!"
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