Funding for six new special classes for schools across Offaly

FUNDING for six new special classes in schools across Offaly has been confirmed by Fianna Fáil Minister of State with responsibility for Special Education, Michael Moynihan.

The announcement forms part of the first tranche of new special classes allocated nationwide, which will see a record number of special classes sanctioned to open for the 2026/2027 school year.

In total, 168 new special classes have been assigned to 159 schools nationwide, with six of these classes allocated to schools in County Offaly.

Expressing his delight at the announcement, Deputy Tony McCormack (pictured below) said: “I am delighted today to hear from my Fianna Fáil colleague, Minister Michael Moynihan, that six new special classes have been allocated to County Offaly.

Included in the allocation are Banagher College, Coláiste Choilm, Tullamore College, St Brendan’s Boys Primary School in Birr, Durrow National School, and Tullamore Educate Together National School.”

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He continued: “These additional resources will have enormous benefits for students, teachers and parents. Everybody is entitled to an education, and in Fianna Fáil we are committed to giving every child throughout the country an equal opportunity in education.

Not only that, but the right resources must be there for those who depend on them, and that is why I am delighted with today’s allocation for Offaly.”

Deputy McCormack noted that this announcement is part of a wider national allocation of 168 new classes, with further special classes to be sanctioned over the coming weeks.

He also praised Minister Moynihan for the early clarity provided to families and schools:

“Clarity for parents is paramount. It is fantastic to see the Minister being proactive, providing parents and children with certainty and clarity well in advance of the new school year. This also benefits schools by giving them adequate time to plan for the opening of their new special classes.”

Concluding, Deputy McCormack said: “In 2026 alone, over €3 billion will be spent supporting students with additional needs. This includes an increase of over 860 special education teachers and more than 1,700 special needs assistant posts.

That will mean almost 46,000 professionals dedicated to supporting students with special educational needs in our schools.

Fianna Fáil is the party of education. We are wholly committed to supporting students with additional needs, and today’s announcement strongly reaffirms that commitment.”

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