asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the severe shortage of residential accommodation for autistic and emotionally disturbed children over the age of 16; when his Department will fulfill their commitment to the St. Paul's special school for autistic and emotionally disturbed children and the Gheel training group, to make funds available for the purchase and use of Thorndale House, Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Residential Accommodation for Autistic Children.
152.
The Irish Society for Autistic Children has submitted a number of proposals to my Department for assistance towards the cost of various projected developments, among them the purchase of Thorndale House. These proposals are under review in my Department but I am not in a position now to indicate what the outcome of this review will be.
Last year funds were made available to the Eastern Health Board to enable it to provide larger and more suitable premises for the residents in the Gheel Hostel at Grosvenor Road, Dublin.