(Ireland) Waterford: Mom relieved autistic son wins special school place

May 12, 2025, WLR FM: Relief for Waterford mother as autistic son secures special school place 

https://www.wlrfm.com/news/relief-for-waterford-mother-as-autistic-son-secures-special-school-place-701206 

A County Waterford mother has expressed her relief and joy after successfully securing a special school place for her autistic son following months of campaigning.

Rebecca Meehan, who had been fighting tirelessly to get a place for her son Jay at St John's Special School in Dungarvan, received confirmation on Friday that Jay has been offered a place for the upcoming academic year starting this September.

Rebecca had been one of several parents locally and nationally raising concerns over the lack of special school places. The situation prompted public protests, including a high-profile campaign in which Rebecca vowed she would "chain herself to the gates" of the school if necessary to ensure her son received an appropriate education.

Earlier this year, St John's held a draw for just eight available places for September 2025, with the process overseen by a local Garda Superintendent to ensure fairness. Despite this, the draw left 22 families in the Dungarvan area still without a school place for their children with additional needs.

Speaking on Déise Today, Rebecca shared her happiness and relief, describing the moment she received the confirmation as “overwhelming.” She thanked those who supported her and emphasised that while her situation has been resolved, many others are still in limbo.

Rebecca has pledged to continue campaigning alongside other parents to push for increased provision of special school places across County Waterford and beyond.

The issue has drawn growing national attention, with campaigners urging the Department of Education to take urgent action to address the shortage and ensure that every child with special needs can access an appropriate educational setting.