Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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281. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the fact that funding has not been as yet been secured for further education of students completing their education at scools (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22774/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that Special Schools funded by my Department are intended to cater for children and young persons with special educational needs from 4 years until the end of the school year in which they reach their 18th year. At that point, the Department of Health/Health Service Executive assumes direct responsibility for young adults with special educational needs who are over 18 years. My Department, at that stage, may allocate resources towards an education component of such provision.

Special Schools may make an application to my Department to retain pupils over the age of 18 who are pursuing courses leading to accreditation at level 3 or above of the National Qualifications Framework (Junior Certificate/Leaving Certificate Applied/FETAC 3); for one additional year, in order to complete these courses. Special schools have been invited to make any such applications to my Department in respect of any pupils fulfilling these criteria who they wish to retain for the coming school year.