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

I know this is a matter of great concern to the Deputy and we have spoken about it on a good few occasions. I have made representations to the NCSE on the Deputy's behalf and it is aware of the fact we have spoken about this on numerous occasions. It has said it will compile a report on the need for a special school in Midleton and in the east Cork area. It will undertake a feasibility study for the area and establish if there is the need for additional provision in the area. The NCSE was of the view there was no need for such provision but it will undertake a feasibility study, based on the Deputy’s contributions in the Dáil and in the committee.

I know there has been a significant increase in special school places in the past year and we have 941 children in special schools in Cork. Having said that, I appreciate a lot of this is concentrated on the south of the city in Carrigaline and Rochestown. There is also provision for a new school in Glanmire that has recently been announced. I understand parents want to find a placement in a special school as near to where they are living as possible, and I know the Deputy has championed the need for a special school in east Cork.

I have instructed the NCSE and the Department to look further into this matter. Whatever about trying to get an appropriate placement for a child, which is the first thing we have to do, the second thing we have to consider is trying to get an appropriate placement in the locality. I can visit east Cork with the Deputy at any stage if that would be of assistance. Now that the NCSE is doing the feasibility study, it is to be hoped that will progress the matter further.

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