New Special Classes announced for Dublin Rathdown – Cllr. Eoin O’Driscoll

New Special Classes announced for Dublin Rathdown – Cllr. Eoin O’Driscoll

Wednesday, 15^th April 2026

Cllr. Eoin O’Driscoll has welcomed today’s announcement by Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, of 40 new special classes and 5 inclusive special classes for the 2026/2027 school year.

Cllr. O’Driscoll (Fine Gael, Stillorgan) said: “Today’s announcement represents further delivery by Fine Gael in Government on its commitment to expand provision for children with special educational needs.

“As Fine Gael’s Disabilities Champion on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, and as a member of the party’s Disability Network, I particularly welcome confirmation that new special classes will be established in two local schools for the 2026/2027 school year: Our Lady’s Grove and Ballinteer Girls National School.

“This is a very positive development for families locally. Increasing capacity in our schools is essential to ensuring that children can access the supports they need within their own community.

“I will continue to work locally to support the expansion of special education provision and to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

Each inclusive special class will receive funding for:

• 1 teacher (or 1.5 teachers at post‑primary level)
• 2 Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)
• Extra capitation funding
• Access to training and support from the NCSE

Schools will also receive:

• A €30,000 start‑up grant for furniture and equipment
• Funding for minor building works or repurposing works, where needed

ENDS