The Minister for Education must explain why a number of children in Finglas are receiving just two hours of school time a day in a community hall because of a delay in delivering two special classes, according to Social Democrats TDs Rory Hearne and Jen Cummins.
Deputy Hearne, who represents Dublin North-West, said:
“I have written to the minister outlining my concerns over a significant setback to the delivery of special classes for Finglas Parochial National School. Despite being sanctioned by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) in 2025, it has been reported that planning delays and administrative issues have delayed the project until at least 2027 or possibly 2028.
“This is a shocking betrayal of the families who campaigned so tirelessly for these additional classrooms so their children can be educated in an appropriate school setting, as is their legal right. The delay will have a hugely negative impact on the entire school community, not least the pupils who should be starting the next academic year in a special class.
“As part of a temporary arrangement, up to 10 students are currently receiving just two hours of schooling a day in a local community centre. This reduced class time falls well short of their right to a full-time education.
“I have written to Minister Hildegarde Naughton asking if her department or NCSE have been in touch with the construction company involved to query delays to the building works. It is vital that every effort is made to ensure that this project is completed in time for the September school term.”
Jen Cummins, the party’s education spokesperson, said:
“There are conditions for when a school has to place a child on a reduced timetable. These include restricting such reductions to six weeks, having the signed consent of a parent or guardian, and a requirement that agencies such as Tusla’s Education Support Service be contacted.
“The NCSE have stated that these children are entitled to a special school place. However, it must be an appropriate school place where a full timetable is provided. The reduction of a full day of education down to two hours because a building has not been provided means a child is not receiving their constitutional right to an education.
“While this situation is outrageous, unfortunately the shortage of special classes is not just confined to Finglas but is a problem replicated across the country.”
March 18, 2026