New Autisim facility for mid-Monaghan school

Northern Sound, Aug 28 2009

The Principal and Board of Management at St Oliver Plunkett National School in Loughmourne near Castleblayney are being praised for their efforts in establishing an autism unit at the school. The Department of Education and Science has agreed to allocate €450,000 euro to establish a permanent building for the unit.

It's understood increased demand for places at the school's autism section has meant a new building is required. Up to now the facility has been housed at temporary accommodation.

Currently there are six autism units at primary schools in Cavan and five in Monaghan. Fianna Fail Deputy Margret Conlon says the work of St Oliver Plunkett's national school is to be commended.

St Oliver Plunkett National School at Loughmourne outside Castleblayney is to get a permanent building for its autism unit.

The Department of Education and Science has allocated €450,000 euro for the project.

Up to now, St Oliver Plunkett National School's unit for pupils with autism has been located in temporary accommodation.

Around 280 such facilities exist around the country which provide specialist education for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. According to Fianna Fáil TD Margaret Conlon, increased demand for places at the unit has meant a new building is required.

The new facility will be built adjoining the main school.

Deputy Conlon is commending the work the school's Board of Management and Principal Adrian Kelly for their efforts in establishing the autism unit.