Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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113. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to address the problem of the ending of school transport for students with special needs when they reach a certain age; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39428/14]

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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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.

Under the terms of my Department's School Transport Scheme for Children with Special Educational Needs, children are eligible for transport where they are attending the nearest recognised school that is or can be resourced to meet their special educational needs.

Eligible children retain their transport eligibility while they remain enrolled in the special school.