Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for attending the Chamber and the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to raise the matter of St. Gabriel's special needs school, Bishopstown, Cork.

The Minister is familiar with the school. It was originally designed for Scoil Cholumbáin and Scoil Therese primary schools. When they closed, St Gabriel's was allowed to use the building. It is fair to say that this building was never designed to be a special needs school. The building's conditions are unacceptable for the 43 pupils and staff. These are children, between the age of four and 18, who are most vulnerable with severe to profound intellectual disabilities. I have met with the parents and visited the school. The school campus does not match the mission statement of the school or the philosophy espoused by the Minister and the Department of Education and Skills. Neither does it match the capital building programme outlined by the Department or the investment in education facilities, particularly in special needs, across the city of Cork.

Urgent funding needs to be put into this school's buildings. The school’s parents’ association has commenced a GoFundMe page. This is a matter of priority. This is a statement of how we treat the most vulnerable children who need the help of the State. The education they are receiving is absolutely exemplary. The school building, however, is unbelievably bad. Many of the pupils are non-verbal. The school enrols children with dual diagnosis with severe to profound intellectual disabilities and autism. The school building, however, is not fit for purpose. If we believe in early intervention to allow students to achieve their full potential, then this school’s building requires a complete overhaul and a commitment from the Government to change it as a matter of urgency. I hope the Government will prioritise the upgrading and refurbishment of this special needs school. It would send a message to the children, parents and staff that we will provide for them.

Being involved with the COPE Foundation, I recognise the importance of every individual in society. I hope the Minister will look favourably on this plea for help from St. Gabriel’s school and its community.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to raise the matter and the Minister for being present.