Disabilities Minister Michael Moynihan has warned that schools may be compelled to open special classes if they continue to show reluctance to accommodate students with additional needs.
The minister’s statement comes amid growing concerns about the shortage of appropriate educational placements for children with disabilities and special educational requirements across Ireland.
In addition to the potential mandatory measures, Moynihan has pledged to establish a centralized application system that would streamline the process for parents seeking school places for children with additional needs.
According to The Irish Examiner, this new system aims to reduce the burden on families who currently must navigate a complex and often fragmented application process across multiple schools and educational institutions.
The minister’s comments reflect increasing government pressure to address what many parents and advocacy groups describe as a crisis in special education provision, with numerous children facing uncertainty about their educational future due to placement shortages.