I wish to inform the Deputy that special schools and special classes attached to mainstream schools funded by the Department are intended to cater for children and young persons with special educational needs from four years of age until the end of the school year in which they reach their 18th year.
The Department of Health and Children has direct responsibility for provision for young adults over 18 years of age with special needs. My Department is prepared to provide funding towards an appropriate education component of such provision.
My officials are liaising with the authorities of the school in question regarding the specific cases referred to by the Deputy.