Vol. 450 No. 6
115 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Education the reason for the failure of her Department to provide for proper care and educational facilities for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11, who has been offered a place in a special school in Devon, England. [5515/95]
I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. The Deputy will appreciate that before a decision is taken to support a placement outside this jurisdiction, it is necessary to be satisfied that no suitable provision is available in the State. It is also necessary to be satisfied that any overseas placement proposed is fully appropriate to the needs of the child. My Department is currently reviewing available options, including the question of placement in the school mentioned by the Deputy. I have directed that the issues involved be pursued with renewed urgency and I will advise the Deputy of the outcome as soon as possible.
