Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important to stress that, wherever possible, the Department’s approach is to co-locate special schools on campus sites with other schools to maximise the opportunities for integration. The NCSE is only looking at an interim site for Rochestown. In that context, it will be looking for special school provision on the eastern side of Cork city also. I will make sure the NCSE is aware of the Deputy's comments on the absolute need for it.

He is right that there are children in that situation and we do not dispute the figures in the Ombudsman for Children's report in relation to children with special educational needs who have to travel to schools. We want that to be in the past and that is why we are publishing the special needs provision legislation, so we can compel schools to open special classes. We are doing much work with the Spiritan Education Trust as well around fee-charging schools in relation to special schools.

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