Vol. 492 No. 7
380 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has for the use of Scoil Cholumbáin, Bishopstown, Cork as a school for the teaching of severely and profoundly handicapped children; and the assistance, if any, given to the Bishopstown Family Centre which has been a long-term user of the Scoil Cholumbáin facilities. [15245/98]
I am pleased to confirm that arrangements are being made to open a new school for children with special needs at the Scoil Cholumbáin premises from September next. The new school, which will be called St. Gabriel's special school, will cater for children with a severe or profound mental handicap and will also incorporate a special unit to cater for certain children with autism. I am aware that the Curraheen Family Centre has been accommodated at the Scoil Cholumbáin premises for some time. My Department is actively engaged in seeking to make suitable alternative accommodation arrangements for the centre.
