Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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481. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if her Department has approved an extension to an existing school (details supplied), which is to meet the needs of children on the autism spectrum; why provision has not been made in this extension for changing or toilet facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3128/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The school referred to by the Deputy was approved to enter the Department's pipeline of school buildings for a project to provide a 1 Class SEN base and reconfiguration works to provide an ASD class.

I can confirm that my Department approved this project to proceed to Stage 2b (post planning approval). My Department is currently awaiting the submission of a Stage 2b report from the school for review.

In accordance with my Departments Schedule of Accommodation for a 1 Class SEN base, the ancillary services of 1 toilet and shower for assisted users and 1 toilet for independent users is provided. Should the school authority wish to apply for further additional accommodations outside of the approved project brief, they should submit an application to my Departments Additional Needs Assessment Unit.

Whilst this project has been devolved to the school authority for delivery, my Department is engaged directly with the school to provide whatever practical assistance and advice is necessary to implement this important project for the wider school community.