Autism unit opens in Swinford

Autism Unit opens in Scoil Mhuire agus PΡdraig, Swinford


Rowan Gallagher

A NEW Autism unit was officially opened last Friday at Scoil Mhuire agus Padraig in Swinford by Tanaiste and Minister for Education, Mary Coughlan.
The new unit, was built at a cost of €250,000 and funded by the Department of Education and Skills, and is said to be a major help to people suffering from autism in the area.
The unit currently caters for five children and has a staffing allocation of 1.5 teaching posts and three Special Needs Assistant posts.
Speaking to pupils, teachers, and parents at the opening of the Unit, the TΡnaiste said: “I am delighted to be here today to join in the celebrations at the opening of your new Autism Unit.
“This is an important development for the school which has established a reputation as a vibrant and inclusive school. It provides a strong basis for the development of this important educational service to a most deserving group of young people and their parents.
“The opening of the new unit will also provide opportunities for the children to meet with each other, integrate where possible and to develop links that will extend into the wider community. The Tanaiste spoke about the need for children with autism to have access to a wide range of approaches to meet their individual needs,” the Tanaiste added.
Tanaiste Coughlan said that ensuring that children with special educational needs can access an education that was appropriate to their needs continues to be a key priority for the Government.
“The record of this Government in the area of special education is one of action. We have greatly expanded the level of resourcing for pupils with special needs.
“We have put important structures in place through the establishment of the National Council for Special Education, which is working effectively and has speeded up the delivery of services to pupils with special needs, their parents and schools,” she concluded.
The TΡnaiste congratulated all involved in bringing the new Unit to fruition, the students at the school, along with their families, school principal Martin Carney, the teachers, staff and special needs assistants and wished them success for the future.