Vol. 491 No. 4
73 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will favourably consider the acquisition of Beechpark school in Stillorgan, County Dublin, in view of the fact that this is the only school in Leinster catering for children with autism and related disorders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12474/98]
The provision of services in the two schools located on the Beechpark campus is primarily a matter for the Department of Education and Science. The Eastern Health Board provides assessment and certain other health related support services, in conjunction with the Department of Education and Science, for the children attending the schools and for other children with autism on an outreach basis.
Officials from my Department are now in discussions with the Daughters of the Cross of Liege, the Department of Education and Science and the Eastern Health Board with the intention of agreeing arrangements for the continuation of the services on the Beechpark campus, including securing the future of the site. It is intended to come to an early resolution. The Daughters of the Cross of Liege have indicated to both Government Departments their wish to see these services remaining on the Beechpark campus. Parents are being kept informed of developments.
