Briain Kelly, 16 Jun
Approval has been given for the construction of a new Ábalta Special
School in Galway City.
The new Ábalta Special School will provide accommodation to expand the
school to cater for a total of 26 classes.
The special school, which currently operates from accommodation at
Parkmore East Business Park, Galway, will form part of a campus project
with Galway Educate Together Secondary School to be constructed at a site
at Gauraun South, Oranmore.
Oranmore native and Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion
Hildegarde Naughton TD said, “I’m pleased that we are in a position today
to announce approval for a new permanent school building for Ábalta
Special School.”
“This marks a significant step forward for the pupils, families and school
community who will benefit for many years to come.”
Budget 2024 dedicates in excess of €2.7 billion to providing supports for
children with special educational needs. Today is a resounding
demonstration of the difference that funding is making.”
The Department of Education has appointed a Project Manager for the
project, which is part of a bundle of projects included on the ADAPT
Programme.
Minister for Education Norma Foley TD said, “The expansion of Ábalta
Special School will enable it to provide an excellent teaching and
learning environment and [a] much broader range of opportunities to many
more pupils and their families.”
“This is a further sign of this government’s commitment to delivering an
education system that is inclusive, open and welcoming to everyone.”