Tánaiste opens Autism Unit in Scoil Mhuire agus Pádraig, Swinford [education.ie]
- Published: 12 November 2010
The Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan TD, today opened a new state of the art Autism Unit in Scoil Mhuire agus Pádraig, Swinford, Co Mayo.
The new unit, which was built at a cost of €250,000 and funded by the Department of Education and Skills, will make an enormous difference to the lives of the pupils who attend.
The unit currently caters for five children and has a staffing allocation of 1.5 teaching posts and three SNA post.
Scoil Mhuire agus Pádraig has an enrolment of 430 students.
Speaking to pupils, teachers, and parents at the opening of the Unit, the Tánaiste said: "I am delighted to be here today to join in the celebrations at the opening of your new Autism Unit.
"This is an important development for the school which has established a reputation as a vibrant and inclusive school.
"It provides a strong basis for the development of this important educational service to a most deserving group of young people and their parents.
"The opening of the new unit will also provide opportunities for the children to meet with each other, integrate where possible and to develop links that will extend into the wider community.
Full Story: www.education.ie
