Fianna Fail Education spokesperson Senator Fiona O’Loughlin has spoken out against plans from Minister Josepha Madigans to use emergency education centres to accommodate pupils with special needs who cannot get a school place.
Senator O’Loughlin said, “I was quite shocked to see the announcements on Twitter by Minister Jospeha Madigan of plans for a network for temporary centres to accommodate children with additional and special need. That is completely wrong in my view.”
“Over the last 20 years or so our education sector has been moving towards a more inclusive system. And segregation is the anthesis of integration and inclusivity. We need to provide adequate special educational supports within the community so that every child can access a high quality of education with their peers and siblings.”
“I have always been a passionate advocate for a truly inclusive education system, and I will absolutely continue to do so.”
Fiona concluded by saying “I believe this decision is wrong, and I will be working with my colleagues to ensure that we plan better in terms of school places to ensure that all children are catered for adequately and to the highest standards.”