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

We agree regarding the temporary nature of the proposed move of Danu Community Special School to Riversdale Community College. However, this is still phase 1 of the process and not phase 2, which will involve the review of which I spoke concerning long-term needs. I have no doubt that the consideration of other possible sites, as mentioned by the Deputy, will be taken into account in that regard. As I said, however, Riversdale Community College has a great deal of space and land in its environs and I see no reason the two schools could not coexist there quite comfortably. As the Minister of State with responsibility for special education, it is important to me that those children with additional needs in Danu Community Special School, and those children who will be attending the school in future, be looked after and I want to ensure that they are.

For that reason, we cannot have a situation where they are remaining in Hansfield Educate Together Secondary School for any length of time, even in the short term. That is why I am glad that the contractor will start these works before 20 July at the latest. At least the children can then go into Riversdale Community College and avail of the additional space there. I state that in case there are other children with additional needs who may need a place there. The Deputy will be aware that it is always an issue to ensure that we can cater for children with special needs in respect of obtaining a place in a special school. If we can bring extra children into Danu Community Special School while that school is temporarily accommodated at Riversdale Community College, then I think we should do that. At that stage, then, a review will be undertaken of the long-term needs of Riversdale Community College and Danu Community Special School in respect of the best interests of the respective children.

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