Vol. 484 No. 2
43 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the provision, if any, which is to be made for secondary education for blind and visually impaired pupils in view of the suggested closure of St Mary's school for the visually impaired, Merrion Road, Dublin 4 in June 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21619/97]
My Department has not received any formal notification of closure of St. Mary's school for visually impaired girls. The school caters for girls of primary and post-primary school age.
My Department has been considering for some time the question of future provision for girls with visual impairment. As part of this process, I have asked my officials to meet the school authorities and representatives of the parents of children attending St. Mary's to discuss the various options available and the steps which need to be taken to cater for the needs of the pupils concerned.
I assure the Deputy that, in the event of a decision to close the school, all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that suitable alternative educational arrangements are made for the pupils concerned.
