School Accommodation Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2018

Tuesday, 13 November 2018

Ceisteanna (220)

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

220. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the school capital appraisal section has received a planning approval appeal submitted by a school (details supplied) in County Donegal for the construction of a dedicated autism and sensory room; if his attention has been drawn to the need for this project to be granted approval in view of the unsuitable nature of existing facilities at the school to accommodate pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46627/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

I wish to advise the Deputy that an application was received in my Department, from the school referred to, for the provision of additional accommodation to cater for an ASD class.

I can confirm that the application was assessed but not approved for funding on the basis of sufficient accommodation being available within the existing school. The school subsequently requested a review of this decision, which is currently ongoing. A decision will issue to the school in question on the matter as soon as possible.