Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for the response. I acknowledge the interest shown by the Minister of State, Deputy Madigan, in this matter and her meeting with the principal and stakeholders.

The written response states that "the Department is currently assessing options with a view to identifying the optimum solution for the long-term accommodation needs" and that as part of this consideration "a potential site option has been identified and its suitability is currently being investigated". There is an excellent site that would be optimal for existing attendees at the school and would be exceptional in terms of its environment, landscape and wooded nature and providing the quietness that students with sensory issues need.

I again ask that the Minister of State, Deputy Madigan, progress this matter through the Department and that the application not be viewed as just another application. It is a very important school for special children who deserve the best. They have a difficult enough life and their parents have unique challenges from day to day. All parents face unique challenges but these parents have additional unique challenges and we need to do our very best for these special children.