Vol. 511 No. 6
404 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if funds were made available to St. Patrick's special school, Kells Road, Kilkenny, to employ helpers on the school bus and proper safety measures such as straps and harnesses; and, if so, when these funds will be received by the school. [25324/99]
My Department issued funding amounting to £19,980 to the school in question in August 1999. This payment was to facilitate the appointment of four escorts on the special transport services conveying pupils to the school. The annual rate per escort is £4,995.
I understand that the school in question has decided not to proceed with the appointment of the escorts pending the outcome of discussions relating to the escort scheme which are currently taking place between officials of my Department and representatives of the National Association of Boards of Management of Special Schools.
The school in question has also been allocated funding amounting to £225.21 to facilitate the purchase of safety harnesses for two children for whom such provision was sought. The school is free to seek further funding for safety harnesses should the need arise.
