(Ireland) County Monaghan: Parents call for new special school; official sees 'demand and need'

Feb 1, 2026, Anglo Celt: Parents push for new special needs school as Minister increases capacity 

https://www.anglocelt.ie/2026/02/01/parents-push-for-new-special-needs-school-as-minister-increases-capacity/# 

Parents and politicians impressed upon the Minister for Education the need for a dedicated new school for children with special needs when Hildegarde Naughton visited the county last week.

“The immediate priority for Monaghan Community Special School was to increase the capacity,” Minister Naughton told the Celt in relation to the school facility, which is operating temporarily in the old Castleblayney College.

There are currently 18 children enrolled with a waiting list. “We’re also working on another classroom for six more children,” she revealed.

Asked directly if a new build is a priority, Minister Naughton said: “A new build will take longer, that’s just being completely honest.” . . .

 “I absolutely acknowledge the demand and need in this area,” said Minister Naughton who described the work of teachers at the school, which opened on October 13 last, as “phenomenal”.

“I have met the parents; I can hear and see the impact that this is having now that their children are here. I want to do more. This is my commitment. I will be working with the elected representatives here and I know the Department of Education is working with the school to progress plans,” continued the Minister.. . .

Parent Julie Durrigan’s son has non-verbal autism. She described the school as being a lifesaver for the whole family, adding that her son has been a lot happier and calmer since starting there.

Julie was asked whether she felt a new build is necessary, she replied: “Yes, definitely. The community needs it. Parents need it. The children 100% need it. Families need it.”. . .

Minister of State Niamh Smyth, Deputy Matt Carthy, Senator Robbie Gallagher and Councillor Aidan Campbell, were also present. All were unreserved in their praise of the staff and facilities at the Monaghan Community Special School but agreed a new school is needed.

Senator Robbie Gallagher (FF) said: “We need to get a new greenfield site for a purpose-built facility.”

Sinn Féin’s Deputy Carthy agreed. “There was a very long campaign to secure what is now an interim school but is providing a huge resource and relief to the 18 families who are benefiting from it,” he said.

“But I think the message coming from the parents was very loud and clear. Certainly, I heard it and it is one of my priorities, that we deliver a special school that has the capacity for every child in the county that needs a place. The facility has always been more important than the location. Castleblayney is in the centre of the county, so from that point of view it’s as good a location as you’re going to find,” he said. . . .