23 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the fact that in spite of the positive answer given by her in Parliamentary Question No. 19 of 28 March 1996 concerning Portlaw national school, Portlaw, County Waterford, no progress has been made as far as the school authorities are aware; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12420/96]

I assume that the Deputy is referring to my commitment to have my Department's inspectorate investigate the educational requirements of a significant number of children with special needs attending Portlaw national school. I can confirm to the Deputy that a member of my Department's inspectorate has now completed an investigation of this matter and has reported on the special education needs of these children.

Consideration is currently being given to how my Department can best respond to the needs of the children in question. I have asked that this consideration be completed as speedily as possible. I would like to assure the Deputy that I share his concern that suitable provision be made available to meet the special education needs of these children. I would be hopeful that suitable arrangements can be put in place in the near future.