National Therapy Service Good News for Special Schools in Cork

The introduction of National Therapy Service for special schools will come as a relief to families across Cork, Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has said.

Deputy O’Shea said therapy services will begin in special schools later in the next academic year.

“I am delighted to see confirmation of the rollout of therapy services in special schools in Cork. Providing some level of speech and language therapy and occupational therapy to each special school is essential to help students reach their full potential.

“The focus will initially be on introducing speech and language therapy and occupational therapy into special education schools. Over time we will see an expansion of other services, like physiotherapy.

“The provisions of these therapies in special schools will ensure that the most vulnerable children in Cork can access the services that they need.

“Recruitment should begin shortly, both by the National Council for Special Education and with an expression of interest call for those already employed within the public sector.

“While the rollout will begin in special schools, it is Minister McEntee’s intention that these vital services will then be rolled out into special classes and later mainstream schools. This will also help upskill teachers and SNAs and will benefit other children in the school and class.

“Fine Gael and Minister McEntee want to ensure every child has the tools they need to access their education. The provision of therapies in special schools will go a long way in helping the most vulnerable children access education”, concluded Deputy O’Shea.