asked the Minister for Health if she had approved the proposal to provide an autistic centre at Newcastle, Galway; and, if so, when financial assistance will be provided to the Western Health Board to assist in its construction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Newcastle (Galway) Autistic Centre.
11.
This proposal is at present being examined by my Department in consultation with the Western Health Board. This is only one of a considerable number of applications for capital funding before my Department at present and in the present financial circumstances I can give no assurance as to when approval could be given.
Does the Minister agree that there is a need for this facility? Would she agree that the plight of autistic children is particularly tragic and the amount of money is very small?
As the Deputy is aware I have recently met a deputation of which Deputy Michael D. Higgins and Deputy Molloy were a part. We discussed that very fully. I am aware of the need in this case and will give it consideration.