Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 2

Written Answers. - Special Education Needs.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

155 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the outcome of the meeting held on 20 May 1998 with representatives of the Eastern Health Board and others regarding the future of the Ballyowen Meadows special school, Stillorgan Road, County Dublin; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the parents association has rejected the proposed site and buildings as inadequate; the alternative proposals, if any, he has received from the parents association; if so, his response to these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13755/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

At the meeting on 20 May to which the Deputy refers, representatives of my Department, the Eastern Health Board and the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross of Lie ge briefed the parents representatives on developments regarding the Beechpark site and discussed these developments in some detail. I understand that arising from this meeting, the parents association has put forward a range of proposals relating to the development of the site. These proposals will be considered as part of the ongoing discussions which are taking place between officers of my Department, the Eastern Health Board and the order concerned. I can assure the Deputy that every effort is being made by all concerned to ensure the continued delivery and development of suitable education and health care services for the pupils attending the schools on the Beechpark campus.