12-year-old, Paddy Flynn was the only child from his primary school class that was rejected a place at Ballyfermot’s De La Salle secondary school.
According to the school, Paddy’s parents had missed the application deadline in November however, the pair cannot read or write and say they did not know they needed to apply.
Paddy, who is a member of the traveller community, was told by Minister Richard Bruton that he would assist him and his family in appealing the decision.
And it looks to have worked as the school have now reversed their decision and aim to meet Paddy’s parents today to officially offer him a place.
The young boy’s story caused an anonymous donor to offer to pay for him to attend a private school.
However, his mum declined the offer because she did not want him to have to go to a new school away from his friends.
“All of his class got in, bar Paddy. What’s different between Paddy and the rest of them?
“He doesn’t know anyone in other schools. All of his friends are from Ballyfermot School. It’s awful when you don’t see your child getting in.”
