Plans to introduce 91 new classes for children with special needs at units based in schools across the country have been met with a mixed reaction.

The Irish Examiner reports how the Irish Progressive Association for Autism Shine Ireland initially welcomed the announcement by the Department of Education (DoE).

However, after learning the new units will replace funding for more costly home tuition, the move has been criticised as "rash cost-cutting".

Kieran Kennedy, chief executive officer of Shine Ireland, said: "The children are being sent wherever. There has been no consultation, no chance to talk to teachers or the principal at school.

"There has been no chance to see if the needs of child can be met."

Mr Kennedy claimed the parents of children without special needs would never be instructed on where their offspring must attend.

Defending the new initiative, a DoE spokesperson said home tuition is not an acceptable long-term alternative to having a child placed in a school and should only be viewed as a temporary measure.

Written by Donal Walsh

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