Moran calls for special attention for special needs

Independent candidate Frank Moran said this week he would prioritise the area of disability and special needs if he were elected as a county councillor. Mr Moran said he was well aware that this was an area that would be total collapse if it wasn"t for the enormous care, dedication and sacrifice given by families and voluntary organisations to adults and children with disabilities throughout the country. 'Families and voluntary organisations save billions of euros for the State on a yearly basis and I hope that these people will not suffer during these difficult times,' he said. He added that he would seek a reduction of the means test for the carer"s allowance; would request a needs analysis for accessibility and provision of funding to carry out necessary work; would seek the continuation of the provision of resources for respite houses throughout the county and would advocate no reduction in resources/staff in special needs schools and special needs classes in mainstream schools. Mr Moran said he was aware of the excellent work that was being carried out in the special needs schools and classes throughout the county and believed that these should not be targeted for cutbacks. He said that these are national issues, but have local consequence and that is where he sees his role. 'During these times of recession local politicians need to prioritise their aims and prioritise their issues, a voice must be given to the most vulnerable in society and that voice must start at local level in order to be heard nationally,' he said. Frank concluded by stating that he would give specific and special attention to the area of special needs.