Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2013
151. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give a comprehensive assurance that a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath which caters for students with a profound intellectual disability will continue to do so; if consideration is being given to providing additional accommodation for these students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29298/13]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that the policy of my Department is to ensure that a continuum of special educational provision is made available, as required, for children with special educational needs, including those attending special schools. This includes making provision for special school and special class placements where required. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for the planning and provision of a range of educational services at local and national level for children with special educational needs. The NCSE, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), co-ordinates special needs education provision, which includes the establishment of special needs units in various geographical areas as required. I understand that the school in question has applied to my Department for alternative accommodation. My Department will consider this request in liaison with the NCSE, as required, and my officials will revert to the school authorities on this matter as soon as possible.
