Big petition for Laois school special unit hand delivered to Minister as gym campaign highlighted

The need for an Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) unit in Errill and the overdue provision of a gym for Rathdowney's secondary school has been raised directly with the Minister for Education.   

Laois local election candidate and Fianna Fáil representative Brian Phelan raised the two issues with Minister Norma Foley in Portlaoise with Laios Offaly TD and Minister of State Seán Fleming.

Mr Phelan said he outlined the demand for an ASD Unit for Errill National School. He brought a petition signed by 1600 people with letters from parents and the Board of Management to cater for the needs of local children, 11 of whom are currently awaiting a place in the area. 

He also highlighted the campaign to get a sports hall in Rathdowney's secondary school.

He said the need for progress in the construction of a gym in St Fergal's College was also requested as it is currently the only secondary school in Laois without one. 

“Every child has a right to the same education in their local school without having to travel an hour a day to be educated away from their friends and family members.  It’s a basic human right,” he said.

Mr Phelan is a candidate to represent the Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District on Laois County Council in this summer's local elections.