‘Play God’ dilemma in Limerick city schools revealed in new research

NEW RESEARCH from Mary Immaculate College (MIC) reveals a critical shortage of onsite multidisciplinary support in DEIS schools across Limerick city, where staff are often forced to make difficult decisions about which vulnerable children receive help. 

Some staff even described it as feeling like they have to “play God.”

The Oscailt Needs Analysis on Multidisciplinary Support in DEIS Schools in Limerick city was launched on June 16 by Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, Michael Moynihan TD. 

It highlights how children in DEIS Band 1 and post-primary schools face years-long waits for essential services such as mental health support, because their families cannot afford private care.

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Thirteen schools from the Oscailt Network, a group of DEIS schools facilitated by MIC, participated in the study. These schools serve communities in Ballinacurra Weston, Southill, St Mary’s Park, and Moyross.

Dr Ruth Bourke, lead researcher of the report and Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the TED Project at MIC, said: “This research shows that big challenges in the health and education systems, like staff shortages and long waiting lists, are stopping children and young people in Limerick’s city centre and regeneration communities from getting the support they need. 

“These delays are holding them back in both their education and access to healthcare, which affects their overall well-being and future chances in life. But this situation can change. 

“What we need now is a joined-up, well-planned strategy that brings schools, services, and communities together to give these students the right support, when and where they need it.”

The research, conducted by the Transforming Education through Dialogue (TED) Project at MIC, identifies growing needs for creative therapies, such as art, music, play therapy, family support, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), and better access to the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS). 

It also notes that demand has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The report found that school-based services significantly boost uptake. Schools provide a safe, trusted environment for children and families, making them ideal locations for support.

Professor Dermot Nestor, president of MIC, also welcomed the report’s publication and praised the commitment of the Oscailt Network schools and the TED Project in addressing the socioeconomic pressures. He said: “The Oscailt Needs Analysis highlights what schools in disadvantaged areas of Limerick have known for a long time, that poverty, trauma, and a lack of access to services are holding children back. 

“What is striking is how much these schools are already doing to respond to the wider social and economic pressures their students live with daily, often well beyond their core role. The findings of this report point to the value of accessible, multidisciplinary, school-based supports that meet children where they are and help level the playing field.”