New special classes will be sanctioned in West Cork for the 2026/2027 school year.

Clonakilty Community College will have an inclusive class from September onwards, while Scoil Bhríde in Ballydehob has been approved for a special class in the future

Speaking on the announcement, Senator Noel O’Donovan said that ‘this is really welcome news for both schools. I have been working for the last year with my colleagues Minister Hildegarde Naughton, and Cllr. Caroline Cronin to try and get a special class in Scoil Bhríde, Ballydehob.

‘Last year, Caroline and I visited the school and heard firsthand just how crucial a special class was for the community. There wasn’t a special class in the whole Mizen area, causing many families to travel outside of their communities to be able to have their children’s needs met.'

Cllr Caroline Cronin continued: ‘I am absolutely thrilled about the news of the special classroom. Senator O’Donovan and I have been working on this for quite a while, so
it is especially rewarding to see it delivered. It is also wonderful news for my own former primary school, which makes it even more meaningful for me.’