Laois public meeting called to demand end stalling of Kolbe Special School build

placeholder image — The Kolbe special school in Portlaoise

A public meeting is being held over the government decision to put Kolbe Special School building on hold.

The decision, which was widely condemned, caused distress to staff, parents and students attending the school for children, many of whom have severe learning disabilities.

Now the community is being invited to attend a meeting to discuss the plight of the long awaited facility which caters for 43 students.

Students at Kolbe Special School are being taught in unsuitable conditions and there had been hope of a new school building by the end of 2024.

However, just days after preliminary works began at the site in Portlaoise, staff, parents and students were informed that the works were being placed on hold pending a budget review.

The decision was met with anger, frustration and heartbreak and the government has yet to confirm the decision has been reversed.

Elected members of Portlaoise Municipal District recently called for the decision to not only be reversed but for the building process to be expedited.

The public meeting is taking place in St Mary's Hall in Portlaoise this Wednesday, March 22 at 7.30pm.