168 special classes for 159 school nationwide: Fianna Fáil delivering in Special Education

Fianna Fáil TD for North Tipperary and Northwest Kilkenny, and Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education and Youth, Ryan O’Meara has welcomed the announcement of 168 new special classes for 159 schools nationwide.

Todays announcement also included 8 in his own constituency, that was confirmed today by Fianna Fáil Minister for Special Education, Michael Moynihan.

The announcement forms part of the first tranche of new special classes nationwide, with a record number set to open for the 2026/27 school year. 

Deputy O’Meara said: “I am delighted to hear from my Fianna Fáil colleague Minister Michael Moynihan that 168 new special classes have been allocated to nationwide, including 8 in my constituency of Tipperary North and Northwest Kilkenny. 

"These additional resources will have enormous benefits for students, teachers and parents. Everybody is entitled to an education, and Fianna Fáil is committed to ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. Included in today’s allocation in my own constituency is: Cloughjordan No. 1 National School, St Josephs CBS  Nenagh and Our Ladys Secondary School, Templemore.

Fianna Fáil Minister for Special Education Michael Moynihan said:

“As Minister for Special Education, the delivery and support of special classes is an integral part of my role, and this year will see the greatest ever number of new special classes sanctioned for September 2026. I’ve been working with my party colleagues to ensure there is no stone left unturned as we support all children with additional needs. 

“This is the first of several tranches to be announced over the coming weeks, months earlier than last year, ensuring parents know much sooner what school their children will attend next September. It also gives schools much more time to plan and prepare.

Deputy O’Meara also highlighted the importance of early clarity for families, adding that earlier announcements benefit both parents and schools.

Concluding, he said:

“In 2026 alone, over €3 billion will be invested in supporting students with additional needs, including additional special education teachers and special needs assistants. Fianna Fáil is the party of education, and today’s announcement reaffirms that commitment.

ENDS