Laois to get seven new special needs classes in September

SEVEN new special needs classes are to be introduced across Laois in September. The seven associated schools are Presentation Primary School, Portarlington; Scoil Phádraig, Portarlington; Scoil Mhuire, Abbeyleix; Our Lady’s Meadow, Durrow; Gaelscoil, Portlaoise; Scoil Bhride, Clonaslee; and Heywood Community School, Ballinakill.

Confirming the development, deputy Sean Fleming said: "There are many special classes already in place throughout the county, but there is a clear demand for these extra classes. These will be very welcome for the pupils and the families and the school communities in these areas. I look forward to these new classes being in place, which will involve the employment of additional teachers, special needs assistants and, above all, the accommodation for these new classes.