Mason says Executive is needed to support children with Special Educational Needs in Downpatrick
South Down Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said that it is clear that Special Educational Needs (SEN) resources in Downpatrick are at crisis point after meeting with representatives working within the sector.
Cathy Mason added: “Recently I attended a meeting which consisted of local nursery principals, primary school principals and early years practitioners which was an opportunity to discuss the issues facing this sector.
“It is clear that a defined strategy and appropriate resources are urgently needed.
“We know that Downpatrick ranks highly as an area of social deprivation and the demand for special educational needs places is growing.
“It was very clear that staff, who are dedicated to caring for these children are at breaking point.
“With packed classrooms, facilities that are not fit for purpose and funding that continues to be stripped away, something needs done to invest properly in these services.
“We need to ensure our children and young people get the support they need and are entitled to.
“These challenges are a direct consequence of consecutive budget cuts by the Tories, the continued DUP boycott of the Executive and a clear disconnect between the Education Authority and the reality of an overcrowded, understaffed classroom.”
“We need all parties to commit to getting back around the Executive table to work together to support key public services such as health and education.
“They need to protect workers and families from the cost-of-living crisis as soon as possible to ease these pressures.”
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