Special Education sleep-out must be a catalyst for Government action – Darren O’Rourke TD
2 April 2025
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education and Youth, Darren O’Rourke TD, has expressed his firm support for the 24-hour sleep-out taking place outside Leinster House today.
Organised by parents advocating for educational equality and appropriate school places for all children with special educational needs, the sleep-out coincides with World Autism Day. Deputy O’Rourke said it highlights the urgent need for comprehensive action to address the educational challenges faced by autistic children and children with other special educational needs.
The Meath East TD emphasised the critical importance of ensuring that every child has access to a suitable school place.
Teachta O’Rourke, said:
“No child with special educational needs should be left without a school place. The failure of successive governments to adequately plan for and invest in special education has left many children without the support they require. Sinn Féin has consistently called on the government to immediately expand the number of special school places, special classes, and special education teaching hours across the state.
“The Minister for Education should be acutely aware of the demand for special classes and special school places. It is imperative that every child has an appropriate school place within a reasonable distance from their home. This requires immediate action and a commitment to long-term planning.
“The dedication of the parents and advocates from the Equality in Education campaign, who are holding their second 24-hour sleep-out to highlight the deficiencies in our education system, is truly commendable. Their actions shine a necessary light on the challenges faced by children with special educational needs and the urgent reforms required to support them.
“This sleep-out must be a catalyst for government action. It must be a wake-up call for them.
“Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for children with special educational needs and their families, to ensure that every child has access to the education they deserve. We call on the government to act without delay to address these pressing issues.”
