Primary school must pay €12,000 compensation to the family of a Down syndrome child who was excluded from class
The case of a child with Down syndrome being removed from a classroom and placed in the school foyer with a special needs aide was described as “appalling” by the Minister for Special Education.
The Workplace Relations Commission ordered the institution concerned to pay €12,000 in compensation.
Josepha Madigan told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland that while she appreciated the WRC’s decision, she was “very upset” when she read the case specifics in the verdict.
She said that the school’s acts were discriminatory and egregious, and that there were no excuses for their actions.
According to the Minister of State, such treatment of a child was unusual, as most schools provided an inclusive and good educational experience for all pupils, including those with special needs. She stated that the Department of Education provided assistance to ensure that all schools were inclusive.
Ms. Madigan stated that in testimony from Down Syndrome Ireland at the WRC, the school was offered but declined assistance. In addition, the school did not cooperate with the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
She went on to say that there was no reason for any school not to be inclusive. “The way this young girl was treated was appalling”.
It was critical for parents to understand that they could call the NCSE to file a complaint if they were dissatisfied with how their kid was being handled at school, “and if all else fails, contact the department,” she added.
“We must ensure that anything like this never happens again,” she continued.
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