Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 2

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

273 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children attending the CABAS school in Scoil Eoin in Kilbarrack, funded by his Department; the amount of the funding; if he will sanction the funds necessary to expand the CABAS school in Scoil Eoin in Kilbarrack to allow for the 12 children on the waiting list who desperately need to avail of the services to attend this school; and if he will make a statement on when he expects these 12 special children to be admitted to the school. [13026/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The facility to which the Deputy refers was established in August 2001 to operate for a three year pilot period. The unit can cater for up to 12 children with autism. My Department has provided a total of €383,203.67 towards the project's operation during the current school year.

I am aware that an application has been made to my Department seeking placement for a number of pupils in the facility in question. The Deputy will appreciate my Department's responsibility in ensuring that support services are provided to children with disabilities that are appropriate to their needs. The needs of the children in question are currently being considered by my Department to ensure that suitable education provision is made. The possibility of place ment in the facility to which the Deputy refers will form part of this consideration.