Kelly calls for additional autism class at Ballyforan National School

An Independent Roscommon Councillor has called for the provision of an additional autism class at Ballyforan National School.

Cllr Emer Kelly made the urgent appeal during a meeting of the local authority's Athlone Municipal District stressing the "huge demand for spaces in this area".

She received unanimous support from her colleagues all of whom agreed to write to the Minister for Education and Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to outline this urgent need.

"Unfortunately, the principal, the board of management and parents' association of the school have yet to receive any clarity regarding their request for the provision of an additional autism class. The school's need is great such is the demand in the local community" Cllr Kelly said.

The school currently has only one autism class, which is based at the St Aidan's GAA community hall. Cllr Kelly said she was of the opinion that additional autism classes would come on stream at the start of each academic year "in September 2024, 2025 and 2026".

"The existing autism class is full and unfortunately, the school cannot cope with the demands being placed on it at the moment. More students who have special education needs are enrolling at the school so it is imperative that the Department of Education sanctions an additional class," Cllr Kelly stated.

The councillor acknowledged that the school was "willing to do what is needed to be accommodated".

"The demand is there. It is unfair that these children cannot get the education access they require," Cllr Kelly said.

Cllr Laurence Fallon queried if there was a "change of policy" regarding the provision of additional autism classes "in rural areas".

"There is huge demand and to me, it appears that such additional classes seem to be more prevalent in large towns," Cllr Fallon said.

He said there would be no issue with providing space for the proposed additional autism class as "St Aidan's GAA club have always been very supportive of the school".

Cllr Tony Ward expressed his fear that students would have to travel far distances to access special education classes.

"It is important for children to stay in the locality when they are going to school,” he said.