Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 3

Written Answers. - Special Education Needs.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

429 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will agree to the request of parents that the proposed new class which is being established for the education needs of children with a severe learning disability in the Cloonamahon Centre for the handicapped, Coolooney, County Sligo be based as an outreach from Ballinacarrow national school, County Sligo; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Cloonamahon centre is situated in a rural area in the catchment area of Ballinacarrow national school; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that at least one official of his Department has recommended that the class be based as an outreach from an urban school (details supplied) in County Sligo; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the parents do not wish to have an involvement or association with the urban school in this regard; and if he will sanction the new class as an outreach from Ballinacarrow national school. [20600/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. I understand that the issues which he raises are receiving active attention in my Department and that officials of my Department are in contact with the parties concerned. I can assure the Deputy that I would be most anxious that suitable arrangements be put in place as speedily as possible to meet the educational needs of the children in question.