There was some good news announced today as the government have confirmed that some 6,000 children with special needs will be given more support at free preschools across the country.
The government say the new scheme will make access to education a lot more easier for children with disabilities. The new €50m programme was revealed today by the new Minister for Children, Katherine Zappone, who said parents and preschools will be able to apply for disability support in preparation for September.
Ms Zappone who was speaking on Newstalk Breakfast said that it was “a good day for children with disabilities”.
“This new programme effectively opens up preschool to children with disabilities and we hope that it will have the potential to benefit up to 6,000 children over a number of years.”
Minister Zappone also said the programme would offer parents and preschool providers would offer support in a number of areas including staff training, grants for equipment, mentors with expertise in working with children with disabilities and therapeutic services.