Vol. 568 No. 5
246 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the future of Camphill School, Ballytobin, County Kilkenny, in view of the fact that the health boards may no longer fund such initiatives; if the unique approach of the school will be retained should his Department take over responsibility of such schools; the meetings held with his Department in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16400/03]
A meeting was held recently with representatives of Ballytobin-Camphill community to discuss the recognition process for schools. The representatives were advised that recognition as a mainstream school could not be granted since the requirements for curriculum provision and patronage were not being met.
In view of the particular emphasis of the school, the representatives acknowledged that it might be more appropriate to apply for recognition as a special school and indicated that they would consider submitting a proposal in this regard to the special education section of my Department. No such proposal has been received to date.
247 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for a national centre for the visually impaired at Gracepark Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16401/03]
300 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider his decision to reject planning for a national centre for the visually impaired in view of the strong case that has been made for such a centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16973/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 247 and 300 together.
Arising from the report of a planning group, which was established to consider proposals for the development of a national centre for the visually impaired, my Department engaged a project team to consider an overall development strategy for the implementation of the planning group's report. The report of the project team was presented to my Department towards the end of 2002.
