Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Independent)

Does the Minister of State have information regarding the number of children who have been allocated school places but have not been able to take up those places yet because of the lack of facilities provided? I also ask about the criteria for the approval of units in schools. The reason I ask is because I am aware of a school that was ready, willing and able and applied to have a unit. That unit was refused, yet children were allocated subsequently to another school that was much further away - 26 miles in one case and 15 miles in another. What are the criteria for the approval of units in a school?

Another general transport issue which is impacting on children with special needs is the lack of bus drivers.