An essential boost in funding has been allocated to support special schools in Lucan and Clondalkin, aimed at improving educational resources for students with significant needs a Fine Gael TD has said.

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Emer Higgins said: 'This year's budget brings with it a strategic investment that includes new Administrative Deputy Principal position in Scoil Mochua in Clondalkin. The addition of these roles is vital for supporting our principals in enhancing student learning experiences and increasing engagement with the community and parents.

'Furthermore, recognising that over half of the students in special schools are teenagers, resources have been tailored to enhance their learning environments. With the allocation of 100 new teaching posts across the country, which will be translated into a bank of post-primary teaching hours for special schools in Lucan and Clondalkin our schools can now offer a wider curriculum. These hours will be distributed based on the number of students aged 13 and over, allowing for a more personalised and effective educational approach.

“This allocation will enable Scoil Mochua in Clondalkin and Stewart's School in Lucan to deliver comprehensive national curriculum subject, which are specifically designed to build on individual strengths, fostering progression and smooth transitions for students.

'This targeted investment underscores our commitment to an inclusive educational system, where every student is provided with the opportunities to reach their full potential. Special schools in Dublin Mid West stand to gain from these resources, securing a future where all students have access to the quality education they deserve.

“Importantly, existing allocations will be maintained, ensuring that our ongoing projects continue without disruption. This approach not only underscores our commitment to fairness but also ensures an equitable distribution of resources across all special schools in Lucan and Clondalkin” Minister Higgins concluded